The Best French Onion Soup Recipe - Life of Stacy (2024)

This is the best French onion soup recipe you will find.

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As someone who typically picks all the onions out of my food, I didn’t grow up eating French Onion Soup. When I met my husband 30 years ago, he introduced me to this delicious soup and I have been hooked ever since.

There’s something truly enchanting about the rich, comforting aroma of caramelized onions, the savory depth of beef broth, and the perfectly melted cheese topping a steaming bowl of French Onion Soup.

As winter winds blow and temperatures drop, there’s no better time to master the art of creating this classic dish.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps to achieve the perfect balance of flavors in what is undoubtedly the best French Onion Soup recipe you’ll ever try.

This Post is all About the Best French Onion Soup Recipe

Special Tools for the Best French Onion Soup Recipe

• Oven Safe Bowls

Ingredients for the Best French Onion Soup Recipe:

• 2.5 lbs (4 large) yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 8 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Baguette slices
• Gruyère cheese, grated

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Instructions:

• Caramelize the Onions:
  • Heat butter and olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-low heat.
  • Add thinly sliced onions and sprinkle sugar to aid caramelization.
  • Stir occasionally until onions turn deep golden brown (45 minutes to an hour).
  • Stir in minced garlic and dried thyme, allowing flavors to meld for a couple of minutes.
  • Pour in white wine, scraping the pot bottom to release caramelized bits.
  • Simmer until the wine has mostly evaporated.
  • Pour in beef broth, season with salt and pepper, bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Cook for an additional 30 minutes to meld and intensify flavors.
• Prepare the Cheesy Topping:
  • Preheat oven’s broiler.
  • Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet, toast under the broiler until golden brown.
• Assemble and Serve:
  • Ladle hot soup into oven-safe bowls.
  • Place toasted baguette slices on top and generously sprinkle grated Gruyère cheese over each bowl.
  • Place bowls under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly, achieving the perfect golden crust.
  • Carefully remove bowls from the oven, allowing them to cool for a moment before serving.

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Tips for the Best French Onion Soup

Creating the perfect French Onion Soup requires attention to detail and a few insider tips. Follow these tips and tricks to elevate your recipe and ensure that your French Onion Soup is perfect every time:

1. Choose the Right Onions: Opt for yellow onions as they have a balanced sweetness and acidity, perfect for caramelization. Avoid using red onions, as they may impart a different flavor profile.
2. Patience is Key: Caramelizing onions is a slow process that cannot be rushed. Low and slow heat is crucial for achieving that deep, rich flavor. Stir the onions regularly to prevent burning but allow them ample time to turn a beautiful golden brown.
3. Balance Sweet and Savory: Adding a small amount of sugar during the caramelization process helps enhance the sweetness of the onions. This balances the savory flavors in the soup, creating a well-rounded taste.
4. Play with Cheese Varieties: While Gruyère is the traditional choice for topping French Onion Soup, you can experiment with other cheeses like Emmental, Swiss, or even a combination of cheeses for a unique twist.
5. Wine Selection: The white wine you choose can impact the overall flavor of the soup. Opt for a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonay, or Pinot Grigio to add depth without overwhelming the dish.
6. Add Depth with Thyme: Dried thyme complements the sweetness of the onions and adds a subtle earthy note to the soup. Fresh thyme can also be used but adjust the quantity accordingly.
7. Oven-Safe Bowls: Make sure the bowls you use for serving are oven-safe. This allows you to melt the cheese under the broiler, achieving that classic bubbly and golden crust.
8. Broil Just Before Serving: Broil the cheese just before serving to ensure it remains hot and gooey. This also prevents the cheese from becoming rubbery, offering the perfect texture for each spoonful.

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Q&A

Remember, the beauty of French Onion Soup lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. By paying attention to these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of this classic dish. Enjoy the delightful warmth and depth of flavors with each comforting spoonful!

What is the best type of onion to use for French Onion Soup?
Yellow onions are the preferred choice for French Onion Soup. They offer a balanced sweetness and acidity that is ideal for caramelization.

Can I use red onions for French Onion Soup?
It’s not recommended to use red onions for this soup. They have a milder flavor and might not provide the depth and richness that yellow onions offer when caramelized.

How long should I caramelize the onions?
Caramelizing onions can take around 45 minutes to an hour. The key is to cook them on low heat, stirring regularly to achieve a deep golden brown color and rich flavor.

Is it necessary to add sugar during the caramelization process?
While not mandatory, adding a small amount of sugar can enhance the sweetness of the onions, creating a more balanced flavor profile in the soup.

Can I use fresh thyme instead of dried thyme?
Yes, fresh thyme can be used as a substitute for dried thyme. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference, as fresh herbs can have a more pronounced flavor.

What type of white wine is best for French Onion Soup?
Choose a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The wine adds depth to the soup without overpowering the other flavors.

Can I make my own beef broth for the soup?
Absolutely! Homemade beef broth can enhance the overall flavor of the soup. If time allows, consider making your own broth for a more personalized touch.

Are there alternative cheese options for the topping?
While Gruyère is traditional, you can experiment with cheeses like Emmental, Swiss, or even a blend of cheeses to create a unique flavor profile.

How long should I broil the cheese on top of the soup?
Broil the cheese just before serving for a few minutes, or until it’s melted and develops a golden-brown crust. This ensures the cheese remains hot and retains a delightful texture.

Can I prepare French Onion Soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and refrigerate it. Add the cheese and broil just before serving to maintain the fresh, gooey texture.

Can I freeze French Onion Soup?
It’s generally best to avoid freezing French Onion Soup, as the texture of the onions and the consistency of the broth may be affected. Freshly made soup is recommended for the best flavor and texture.

This Post was all About the Best French Onion Soup Recipe

With this foolproof recipe, you’re sure to impress friends and family with a bowl of the best French Onion Soup they’ve ever tasted.

So, don your apron, embrace the therapeutic art of caramelizing onions, and embark on a culinary journey that captures the essence of comfort in every spoonful. Bon appétit!

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