French Onion Soup is the ultimate indulgence for lovers of rich, savory flavors. With its deeply caramelized onions, a robust broth, and a crown of gooey, golden-brown cheese on crusty bread, this soup is a comforting masterpiece. A timeless French classic, it’s perfect for special occasions, a cozy dinner, or whenever you want to feel a little fancy. One bite, and you’ll understand why this dish has stood the test of time.
Summary
French Onion Soup features deeply caramelized onions simmered in a savory broth, served with toasted bread and melted cheese. It’s a decadent yet comforting French classic.
Ingredients
(Serves 4–6)
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, for faster caramelization)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 250 ml dry white wine
- 1.2 liters beef stock (or a mix of beef and chicken stock)
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 baguette, sliced into thick rounds
- 200 g Gruyère or Comté cheese, grated
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions
In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and stir to coat. Cook for 20–30 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are golden brown and deeply caramelized. (Add sugar to speed up the process, if desired.) - Add the Garlic and Flour
Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well. Cook for another minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. - Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the wine reduces slightly. - Simmer the Broth
Add the beef stock, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook gently for 20–30 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. - Prepare the Bread
Preheat your oven's broiler. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast until lightly golden on both sides. - Assemble and Broil
Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a slice or two of toasted baguette on top, then cover generously with grated Gruyère cheese. Place the bowls on a baking tray and broil for 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. - Serve
Carefully remove the bowls from the oven and serve immediately. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme, if desired.
PRO TIP:
For an extra layer of flavor, deglaze the caramelized onions with a splash of brandy or sherry before adding the wine. It adds depth and richness to the soup.
Conclusion
French Onion Soup is more than a dish—it’s an experience. The sweetness of caramelized onions, the depth of a savory broth, and the indulgence of gooey melted cheese come together in perfect harmony. Serve it as a starter or make it the centerpiece of a cozy dinner. Either way, this timeless classic will transport you straight to a Parisian bistro. Bon appétit!
