A steaming bowl of French onion soup is one of life’s greatest pleasures. This French favorite has traveled the world and established a firm fixture in the diets of foodies everywhere. This article will explain where French onion soup came from, what makes it so tasty, and how to prepare it at home.
Brief Background of French Onion Soup
The origins of French onion soup can be traced back to the inexpensive and plentiful onions sold in Parisian marketplaces. It was a favorite among the working class since it allowed them to eat well without breaking the bank.
French onion soup, as we know it now, gained popularity in the 18th century; it is now typically made with a beef broth and melted Gruyere cheese. It first appeared on menus in Paris’s numerous cafés and bistros before making its way to eateries across the globe.
Ingredients
To make French onion soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 6 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- Baguette slices, toasted
- 2 cups grated Gruyere cheese
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil, onions, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes or until the onions are caramelized and golden brown.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to combine.
- Add the beef broth, red wine, bay leaf, and thyme leaves. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes.
- Preheat the broiler.
- Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of toasted baguette and a generous amount of grated Gruyere cheese.
- Place the bowls under the broiler and cook until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Making French Onion Soup
Make sure to use premium supplies. Since French onion soup uses such few ingredients, you’ll want to make sure they’re of the highest quality. Fresh onions, a decent beef broth, and a nutty cheese like Gruyere should all be on your shopping list.
Wait patiently for the caramelization to finish. Caramelized onions are the secret to a savory, delicious soup. Stirring them occasionally, brown them slowly at a low temperature until they’re fragrant and golden.
To avoid any accidents, use bowls that can go in the oven. Traditional French onion soup is served in individual oven-safe bowls with the cheese sprinkled on top and broiled. Verify the oven-readiness of your bowls before using them.
Why You Should Make French Onion Soup
The food is warming and tasty. On chilly evenings or days when you just need a little pick-me-up, nothing beats a bowl of French onion soup.
It’s simple to prepare. Though it seems complicated, making French onion soup at home couldn’t be simpler. This famous dish may be made at home with just a few inexpensive ingredients and a little bit of time.
It’s a hit with the public. Whether as an appetizer or a main course, French onion soup is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.