Name: French Onion Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version); 1 cup dry white wine (optional); 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme); 2 bay leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for caramelization); 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces; 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)

Description

French Onion Soup is a classic, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. With deeply caramelized onions, a rich, savory broth, and melted cheese-topped baguette croutons, this iconic soup offers warmth and indulgence in every spoonful. Ideal for dinner parties or cozy nights in, it’s a recipe that’s sure to impress with its deep, satisfying flavors.

Ingredients

4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)

1 cup dry white wine (optional)

1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

2 bay leaves

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for caramelization)

1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces

2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)

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Instructions

Caramelize the Onions: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and caramelized. (Add sugar halfway for extra sweetness.)
Deglaze with Wine: Add the dry white wine (if using) and stir, scraping up any brown bits from the pot. Let the wine reduce by half, about 5 minutes.
Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the Croutons: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, until golden and crispy.
Assemble the Soup: Remove bay leaves from the soup. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls, top with toasted baguette slices, and sprinkle generously with grated Gruyère cheese.
Broil the Cheese: Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Serve: Carefully remove from the oven and serve hot.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for beef broth and use non-dairy butter if needed.
Gruyère is traditional, but Swiss, fontina, or even provolone can be used for a different twist.
If you want more depth, add fresh rosemary or sage along with thyme.
Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of truffle oil on top for a luxurious touch.

Prep Time: 15min
Cook Time: 25min
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: French