| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 2 hrs – 2 hrs 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 20g | 12g | 30g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 3g | 14g | 1.5g |
Why I Love French French Onion Soup
There’s something wonderfully comforting about a bowl of French Onion Soup. This classic French recipe exudes a richness and depth of flavor that is both warming and nourishing. I grew enamored of French Onion Soup during my travels to France, and it’s a love affair that continues to this day.
An Unforgettable Influence
Although my culinary journeys are steeped in the robust, spice-infused flavors of West African dishes and a pronounced love for Southern cooking, there is something undeniably appealing about French cuisine’s simplicity and precision. I remember, in particular, a seasoned French chef named Alain Ducasse, whose exquisite approach to French Onion Soup was truly inspiring.
A Dance of Flavors
In this French Onion Soup recipe, the key lies in gently caramelizing the onions- a process that adds a delightful sweetness to this savory dish. When combined with the sharpness of the cheese (a stellar duo of Gruyère and Parmesan), the slightly tart flavor of dry white wine, and the heartiness of the beef broth you’re left with an unforgettable symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
Despite being sumptuous and satisfying on its own, this French Onion Soup pairs brilliantly with a crunchy green salad lightly tossed in a citrus vinaigrette. It also wears a surprising kinship to a traditional Nigerian dish called Ewa Agoyin, a beans dish often served with caramelized onions. Though continents apart, the similar flavor profiles – that irresistible blend of sweetness and savor- lovely encapsulate my passion for Afro-Southern fusion.
Producing a well-made French Onion Soup is nothing short of an enchanting culinary journey, an opportunity to transport you and your loved ones to the quaint little streets of Paris with every spoonful. The decadence, the depth of flavors, and the warmth it brings make it an enduring favourite for me, reminding me in many ways of the foods I grew up with, served with love and warmth at our family table.
What You’ll Need
- 6 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 fresh thyme sprigs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 French baguette, cut into slices
- 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Method
Step One
Start by peeling and thinly slicing your yellow onions. Then, mince your garlic cloves. Set them aside for your next step.
Step Two
In a large pot, heat your unsalted butter and olive oil. Once the butter has completely melted, add the sliced onions, garlic, and sugar. Stir until the onions are well coated in the butter and oil. Cook this over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions have caramelized. This should take approximately 20-25 minutes.
Step Three
Next, sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions, stirring to ensure it’s evenly distributed. Cook for another 2-3 minutes or until the flour has slightly browned.
Step Four
Add the beef broth, white wine, bay leaves, and thyme to the pot with the caramelized onions. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step Five
While your soup simmers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice your French baguette and place the slices onto a baking sheet. Pop them in the oven and let them toast until they’re golden and crispy – this should take about 10 to 15 minutes.
Step Six
Add a generous amount of Gruyère and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top of each slice of toasted baguette.
Step Seven
Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls and place a slice of cheesy baguette on top. Broil in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade French Onion Soup!
