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French Onion Soup

French Onion Soup is a classic French dish known for its rich, savory flavor and comforting qualities. Featuring caramelized onions simmered in a flavorful broth and topped with crusty bread and melted cheese, this soup is perfect for a cozy dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Soup
Cuisine French Cuisine
Servings 4 People
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large saucepan or Dutch oven
  • 1 wooden spoon
  • 1 ladle
  • 4 oven-safe bowls or crocks
  • 1 sharp knife
  • 1 cutting board

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large onions, thinly sliced About 2 pounds.
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 8 cups beef broth Preferably low sodium.
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 leaf bay leaf
  • 8 slices French bread, toasted
  • 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Heat the butter and olive oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 30 minutes or until the onions are golden brown and caramelized.
  • Stir in the white wine and cook for another 5 minutes, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  • Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
  • Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Season the soup with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls or crocks, leaving some space at the top.
  • Place a slice of toasted French bread on top of each bowl, then sprinkle with the shredded Gruyère cheese.
  • Place the bowls on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • Carefully remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your comforting bowl of French Onion Soup!

Notes

For added depth of flavor, you can mix in a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar when adding the beef broth.
Serve with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
You can customize the soup by adding a splash of sherry or brandy for extra richness.