Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of French bread
- 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
Special equipment needed:
- Dutch oven or large soup pot
- Oven-safe soup bowls
- Broiler
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a Dutch oven or large soup pot over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 30 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to combine.
4. Pour in the beef broth, white wine, and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 20-30 minutes, until the flavors have melded together.
6. Preheat the broiler.
7. Ladle the soup into oven-safe soup bowls.
8. Place a slice of French bread on top of each bowl of soup.
9. Sprinkle the grated Gruyere cheese over the bread.
10. Place the soup bowls under the broiler and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
- Soup should be simmered over medium heat and then broiled on high heat.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 480
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 23g
- Sodium: 1730mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Vegetable broth can be used instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version of this recipe.
- Red wine can be used instead of white wine for a deeper flavor.
Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the soup for a heartier version.
- Use different types of cheese, such as Swiss or Parmesan, for a different flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Be patient when caramelizing the onions - this step is crucial for the flavor of the soup.
- To make the soup ahead of time, prepare the soup and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and broil the bread and cheese as directed.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the soup in a classic French onion soup bowl for an authentic presentation.
Garnishes:
- Fresh thyme or parsley can be sprinkled on top of the soup for a pop of color.
Pairings:
- Serve the soup with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- A simple green salad or a baguette with butter make great side dishes for this soup.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thin, let it simmer for a bit longer to reduce and thicken.
- If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth or water to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the soup to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- French onion soup has been a staple in French cuisine for centuries, with some sources dating it back to the Roman Empire.
Flavor profiles:
- This soup is savory and rich, with a deep onion flavor and a cheesy, slightly nutty finish.
Serving suggestions:
- This soup is perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a dinner party.
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Region: French