Vegan French Onion Soup

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and stir to coat them in the oil. Season with a pinch of salt. The key to a great French onion soup is slowly caramelizing the onions, which brings out their natural sweetness and depth.

Stir the onions occasionally, and allow them to cook for 30-40 minutes. This slow process will transform the onions into a golden-brown, sweet, and flavorful base. If the onions start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low.

After the onions are fully caramelized, you can add sugar to enhance the sweetness (optional) and minced garlic for an extra layer of flavor. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Wine and Vinegar

Pour in the white wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any bits of onion that may be stuck to the bottom of the pot (these bits are full of flavor!). Allow the wine to cook off for about 5 minutes, reducing slightly. If you prefer to skip the wine, you can replace it with an equal amount of vegetable broth.

Add balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of acidity and depth, stirring it into the mix. This balances out the richness of the caramelized onions beautifully.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Herbs

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the dried thyme and rosemary (if using). Stir everything together and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Prepare the Bread Topping

While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the baguette or crusty bread into thin pieces and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast the bread in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crispy. You can rub the toasted bread with a garlic clove for an extra burst of flavor if desired.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Once the soup is ready, ladle it into individual oven-safe bowls. Place one or two slices of the toasted bread on top of the soup. Sprinkle the top generously with vegan cheese. You can use vegan mozzarella, cheddar, or any melty plant-based cheese of your choice.

Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating that golden, crispy topping you know and love.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Carefully remove the bowls from the oven (they’ll be hot!) and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh thyme if desired, and serve with a side salad or extra toasted bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Caramelize the Onions Slowly: Don’t rush the caramelization process. It can take 30-40 minutes, but it’s worth it for the depth of flavor it adds to the soup.
• Use Quality Broth: Since the broth is a key component of this soup, opt for a high-quality low-sodium vegetable broth for the best flavor.
• Vegan Cheese Options: If you’re not a fan of store-bought vegan cheese, you can try making your own. A cashew-based cheese or nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free topping.
• Make-Ahead: You can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving and add fresh toasted bread and cheese just before broiling.
• Customizations: Feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables like mushrooms for an extra umami boost or leeks for a different flavor.

Why You’ll Love Vegan French Onion Soup

• Comforting & Hearty: Just like the original French onion soup, this vegan version is a rich, hearty meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something satisfying.
• Savory & Flavorful: The caramelized onions, rich broth, and crispy bread topped with melty vegan cheese make this soup an absolute crowd-pleaser. It’s full of depth, umami, and that irresistible sweetness from the onions.
• Plant-Based: With this recipe, you don’t have to miss out on the classic French onion soup. It’s completely vegan and dairy-free while still delivering all the comforting flavors.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or making it for a special gathering, this Vegan French Onion Soup will surely impress your guests and family alike.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan French Onion Soup is the perfect balance of comforting, rich, and savory flavors, with none of the dairy or meat found in the traditional version. It’s a perfect dish for vegan diners, but it’s also a great option for anyone who loves good food, regardless of dietary preferences.

With its tender caramelized onions, robust vegetable broth, crispy bread topping, and melty vegan cheese, it’s no wonder this dish has stood the test of time. So grab your ingredients, fire up your stove, and enjoy a warm, satisfying bowl of this plant-based classic.

Buon appetito!