French Onion Soup Recipe: A Classic Comfort Food
French Onion Soup is a beloved dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. This rich and savory soup is made from a base of caramelized onions cooked in a flavorful beef broth, topped with toasted bread slices and melted cheese. It is the perfect comfort food for a cold winter’s day or a delicious starter for any meal.
To make this delightful soup, you will need the following ingredients:
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 4 tablespoons of butter
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of beef broth
– 1 cup of red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Baguette slices
– Gruyère cheese, shredded
Now, let’s get started with the cooking instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook them slowly until they become golden brown and caramelized. This process will take about 30-40 minutes, so be patient and stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring well to coat them evenly. Cook for another minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
4. Slowly pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), stirring constantly to incorporate the flour mixture. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Season the soup with sugar, salt, and pepper according to your taste preference. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them until they become golden and crispy.
7. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a couple of toasted baguette slices on top of each bowl and sprinkle a generous amount of Gruyère cheese over the bread.
8. Transfer the bowls to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, usually about 10 minutes.
9. Carefully remove the bowls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Be cautious as the bowls will be hot.
This recipe will yield approximately 4 servings, depending on the size of your bowls. The estimated cooking time, including the caramelizing of onions, is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Now, sit back, savor the aroma, and enjoy a bowl of homemade French Onion Soup. It’s a classic dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.