There is something so satisfying about making and eating French Onion Soup. It is a simple dish that showcases the sweet and savory flavors of caramelized onions in a rich and hearty broth, topped with crunchy croutons and gooey cheese. You can make it vegan or vegetarian by using vegetable broth and vegan cheese, or stick to the traditional beef broth and gruyere cheese. Either way, you will love this cozy and comforting soup that is perfect for the colder months.
What You Need to Make French Onion Soup
- yellow onions – you can also add some leeks for extra flavor
- olive oil or butter (or both) – to cook the onions and toast the bread
- salt – to season the onions and bring out their sweetness
- thyme – a classic herb that pairs well with onions
- beef or vegetable broth – to make the soup base
- bay leaves – to add some depth and aroma
- pepper – to balance the sweetness of the onions
- sherry vinegar – a secret ingredient that adds some acidity and brightness
- baguette or French bread – to make the croutons
- gruyere, comte or emmenthal cheese (or vegan cheese) – to melt over the croutons
How to Make French Onion Soup
Making French Onion Soup takes some time, but it is not difficult. The most important step is caramelizing the onions, which takes about an hour. You can do this ahead of time and refrigerate the onions until you are ready to make the soup.
Step One: Slice the onions
Cut off the ends of the onions and peel them. Cut them in half from stem to root, then slice them into thin half-moons along the grain. This helps them cook more evenly and become more tender.
Step Two: Caramelize the onions
Heat some oil and butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions and salt and toss to coat. Cover for 5 minutes, then uncover and stir. Continue cooking for 45 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until the onions are golden brown and soft. You may need to lower the heat halfway through to prevent burning. At the end, add some minced garlic and cook for 2 more minutes.
Step Three: Make the soup
Add some wine to the pot with the onions and bring to a boil. Cook until the liquid is reduced by half. Then add some broth, bay leaves, pepper and sherry vinegar. Simmer for 15 minutes, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step Four: Make the croutons
Slice some bread into thin rounds and toast them lightly in a skillet with some oil or butter over medium-low heat. Flip them over once they are golden on one side.
Step Five: Assemble and bake
Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls or ramekins and place them on a baking sheet. Top each bowl with two slices of bread and some grated cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step Six: Enjoy!
Carefully remove the bowls from the oven and serve hot with a green salad on the side. Enjoy your delicious French Onion Soup!
