French Onion Soup
One of my all time favorite soups - simple to make and full of the richest caramelized onion flavors. Topped with thick crusty bread, melted gruyere and fresh chives.
Build that onion flavor!
This is a recipe one cannot be rushed. The more caramelized the onions, the richer the flavor so plan for at least 45 minutes for caramelizing.
Alternatives To Wine
If you prefer to omit alcohol, add Worcestershire sauce instead; it emphasizes the beef broth flavor and is a good alternative.
INGREDIENTS —
6 large white or yellow onions, sliced thinly (use a mandoline if you have one!)
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1-2 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups of stock - beef broth or chicken broth (can also use vegetable broth, flavor just wont be as rich)
½ cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons of dry sherry (not necessary but delicious)
a few sprigs of fresh thyme
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
6-8 slices of a French baguette
1 ½ cups grated Gruyere cheese
Garnish: diced chives or thyme
INSTRUCTIONS —
PEEL & SLICE ONIONS: Peel onions and using a mandoline (if you have one), slice onions so they are very thin
CARMELIZE ONIONS: In a large saucepan over medium heat add butter and olive oil, onions, salt, and pepper. Stir then cover with lid (for about 5 minutes). Uncover and let onions caramelize over medium heat for 15 minutes (if you need to add more butter and oil do it now) then continue to cook for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
DEGLAZE POT: ADD WHITE WINE & SHERRY to the onions, scrape up any browned bits on the bottom and sides of the pot. Add garlic and bring to a gentle boil. Add in the flour and let thicken for 1-2 minutes.
MAKE IT A SOUP! Now add in 8 cups of broth to the onions. Cover and simmer on low heat.
PREP BREAD SLICES: Place bread slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil on then top with gruyere so the slice is covered. Broil for 5 minutes then remove from the oven.
LADLE SOUP: Add the soup to oven-safe bowls. Sprinkle gruyere in bowls, then (depending on the size of the bread) add 1- 2 slices of bread over the cheese.
BROIL for 1-2 mins until cheese browns. Remove from oven
GARNISH with fresh chopped chives, and serve immediately!
Serves about 4-6 people
