Classic French Onion Soup: A Comforting and Delicious Meal

Ideal for cozy evenings at home or as an impressive starter for a dinner party, this soup is both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious. The golden-brown cheese topping adds a delightful crunch, making this dish a true comfort food classic.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 5 onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 celery stalk, chopped
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon of sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of flour
  • 600 milliliters of hot vegetable broth
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 10 grams of butter
  • Bread slices
  • Grated cheese (such as Gruyère or Swiss)

Directions:

  • Heat the Olive Oil:
    • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over moderate heat.
  • Cook the Onions:
    • Add the sliced onions and salt.
    • Fry for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and translucent.
  • Add Vegetables and Sugar:
    • Add the chopped celery and carrot, along with the sugar.
    • Continue to fry for another 5 minutes on moderate heat.
  • Create a Roux:
    • Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
  • Add the Broth:
    • Gradually add the hot vegetable broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
  • Season and Simmer:
    • Season with black pepper to taste and let the soup simmer on low heat for 5 minutes.
  • Add Butter:
    • Stir in the butter and mix well until melted.
  • Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
  • Prepare for Baking:
    • Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls.
    • Top each bowl with a slice of bread and sprinkle generously with grated cheese.
  • Bake:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  • Serve:
    • Serve hot and enjoy your meal!

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve hot with a side salad for a complete meal.
  • Pair with a glass of white wine for an elegant touch.
  • Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley, for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips:

  • Slice onions thinly and evenly for the best caramelization.
  • Use a good quality vegetable broth to enhance the flavor.
  • For a richer taste, substitute part of the broth with beef broth.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Onions: A good source of vitamins C and B6, and folate.
  • Antioxidants: Promotes health and well-being.
  • Low in Calories: High in fiber, making it a healthy choice.

Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian-friendly: Suitable for vegetarians.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free bread.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Possible by omitting cheese or using a plant-based alternative.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Comforting and Warming: Perfect for cold days.
  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward preparation.
  • Versatile: Can be enjoyed as a starter or main course.

Conclusion:

This Classic French Onion Soup is a testament to the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly delicious. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting warmth of this easy-to-make dish, and savor the joy it brings to your table. Bon appétit!