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French cuisine is renowned for its elegance and depth of flavor, offering a wide range of comforting dishes that warm the soul. Among these culinary treasures, French onion soup stands out as a classic favorite, celebrated for its rich, savory aroma and heartwarming qualities. This dish, with its luxurious layers of caramelized onions, savory broth, and a decadent topping of melted cheese, embodies the essence of comfort food. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, French onion soup has a way of enveloping diners in a warm embrace, making it a staple in bistros and homes alike.

Classic French Onion Soup – So Rich & Comforting!

Discover the warmth of classic French onion soup, a beloved dish known for its rich flavors and comforting essence. This article takes you on a journey through its history, revealing how it transformed from a peasant staple to a gourmet delight. Learn the essential ingredients, like sweet caramelized onions, hearty beef broth, and gooey Gruyère cheese, alongside step-by-step preparation tips. Embrace the joy of cooking and enjoy this delicious soup that warms the soul.
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Ingredients
  

4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon sugar (preferably brown)

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)

6 cups beef broth (homemade or low-sodium)

1 bay leaf

1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

1 French baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces

2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (or a mix of Gruyère and Emmental)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Caramelize the Onions: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the onions in the butter. Cook the onions for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized.

    Add Garlic: Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

      Deglaze: Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Allow the wine to simmer for about 5 minutes until it has reduced slightly.

        Add Broth and Herbs: Add the beef broth, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning if needed.

          Prepare the Baguette: While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, turning halfway through, until crisp and golden.

            Assemble the Soup: Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls or crocks, filling them about 3/4 full. Place 2-3 toasted baguette slices on top of each bowl, then generously sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese over the bread.

              Broil: Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for about 2-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning.

                Garnish & Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color. Enjoy your rich and comforting French onion soup!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 4-6