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Instructions:
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
- Cook the Onions: In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes until the onions soften and begin to caramelize. You want them to be golden brown and sweet, so be patient during this step.
- Add Garlic: Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 2: Make the Soup Base
- Add Flour and Broth: Sprinkle flour over the caramelized onions and stir well to coat them. This helps thicken the soup slightly. Pour in the beef broth while stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season: Add the thyme, bay leaf, balsamic vinegar (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir and let the soup simmer for a bit longer, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread and Cheese
- Toast the Bread: While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the slices of French bread on a baking sheet and toast them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Add Cheese: Once the bread is toasted, sprinkle each slice with shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese), then place it back under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Serve the Soup: Ladle the hot French onion soup into bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of the toasted, cheesy bread.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with additional thyme if desired, and serve hot. You’ll enjoy the combination of the hearty soup, crispy bread, and melted cheese in every bite!
Tips for the Best Easy French Onion Soup:
- Caramelizing the Onions: The key to great French onion soup is taking the time to properly caramelize the onions. Low and slow is the secret to unlocking their sweet flavor. Don’t rush this step!
- Broth Options: For a richer soup, opt for beef broth, but you can also use vegetable broth or even chicken broth for a lighter version.
- Cheese Choices: Gruyère is the classic choice for French onion soup, but Swiss or Fontina also work well. If you want an extra indulgent touch, mix in a little shredded Parmesan for a savory kick.
- Adding a Kick: For a little extra flavor, drizzle a small amount of balsamic vinegar into the soup to enhance the sweetness of the onions.
- Making It Ahead: French onion soup can be made ahead of time! Simply refrigerate the soup and reheat it when ready to serve. Add the toasted bread and cheese just before broiling.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great side dish to balance the richness of the soup.
- Wine Pairing: Pair your French onion soup with a glass of dry white wine like Chardonnay or a light red wine such as Pinot Noir to complement the savory flavors.
Conclusion:
Easy French Onion Soup is the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication. With its deeply flavorful caramelized onions, savory broth, and melty cheese, it’s a dish that will warm you from the inside out. This simplified recipe allows you to enjoy the rich flavors of traditional French onion soup without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a cold day or an appetizer for a special occasion, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings.
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