Onion Soup
Onion soup is a timeless classic that warms the soul with its rich, savory flavors and comforting aroma. This dish features sweet, caramelized onions simmered in a flavorful broth, topped with melted cheese and crusty bread. Perfect for chilly evenings or as an elegant starter, this onion soup recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the details of preparing this delicious dish.
Ingredients
– 4 large onions, thinly sliced
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
– 1 cup dry white wine
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 slices of baguette
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving of onion soup contains approximately 250 calories, 15g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, and 6g of protein. This is based on a serving size of 1 bowl.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and cook until softened, about 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle sugar over the onions and continue cooking until caramelized, about 20 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add broth and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast until golden.
- In oven-safe bowls, ladle soup and top with toasted baguette and cheese.
- Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10 minutes.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the Gruyère cheese with Swiss or mozzarella if desired. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of beef. Additionally, caramelized onions can be enhanced with a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth.
Serving and Pairings
Onion soup pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread. It can also be enjoyed with a glass of dry white wine, making for a delightful meal experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover onion soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens. The soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t rush the caramelization process; it enhances flavor.
- Avoid using too much broth; balance is key.
- Don’t forget to season; taste as you go.
- Choose a good quality wine for better flavor.
- Ensure the cheese is oven-safe to melt properly.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add thyme or bay leaves while simmering.
- Use a mix of yellow and sweet onions for depth.
- Toast the bread just before serving for optimal crunch.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
FAQs
What type of onions are best for onion soup?
Yellow onions are typically preferred for their sweetness, but you can also use sweet onions for a milder flavor.
Can I make onion soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just reheat and add the bread and cheese before serving.
Is onion soup gluten-free?
It can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free bread and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
Can I use stock instead of broth?
Yes, stock can be used; it may give a richer flavor depending on how it’s made.
What can I serve with onion soup?
It pairs well with salads, sandwiches, or even as a starter before a main dish.
Conclusion
Onion soup is a delightful dish that combines simple ingredients into a comforting and flavorful experience. Whether enjoyed on a cold night or shared with friends, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and embrace the delicious warmth of homemade onion soup!
Onion Soup
Ingredients
- 4 large onions thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup dry white wine
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices of baguette
- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
Instructions
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions and cook until softened, about 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle sugar over the onions and continue cooking until caramelized, about 20 minutes.
- Pour in the white wine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add broth and bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- While soup simmers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast until golden.
- In oven-safe bowls, ladle soup and top with toasted baguette and cheese.
- Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10 minutes.
