Over the years, my family and friends have accompanied me in trying French onion soup at numerous restaurants, but we all agree that none compare to my version’s deep, rich flavor and quality. Combining a perfect balance of savory ingredients with a simple cooking process, this recipe consistently delivers a delicious, restaurant-quality French onion soup everyone loves.
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Nothing is as comforting as a hot bowl of homemade French onion soup. This top-rated recipe allows you to make a restaurant-quality French onion soup in the comfort of your own kitchen. Plus, you’ll discover useful tips on selecting the best ingredients and properly storing any leftovers.
What Is French Onion Soup?
French onion soup, or soup à l’oignon gratinée in French, is a classic dish featuring caramelized onions simmered in a rich beef broth. It’s finished with a layer of crusty bread and melted cheese, then broiled until bubbly and golden. This comforting soup is traditionally served in a ramekin or a handled ceramic crock, giving it an authentic French presentation.
What’s the Best Cheese for French Onion Soup?
Gruyère is the classic cheese for topping French onion soup, but feel free to experiment with different cheeses for added depth and richness. Many recipes incorporate a combination of three cheeses to enhance the flavor. This recipe uses a blend of Parmesan, provolone, and Swiss, though Fontina and mozzarella are also excellent options. Whichever cheese you choose, be generous—French onion soup is meant to be a rich, indulgent dish!
What Are the Ideal Onions for French Onion Soup?
The traditional French onion soup typically features thinly sliced yellow onions, prized for their perfect balance of sweetness and flavor. However, red or white onions can also be used, depending on your personal taste or what you have on hand. Each type of onion brings its own unique flavor profile to the soup, adding a different twist to the dish.
How do you properly store, reheat, and freeze French onion soup?
How to Store This Soup?
After the soup has cooled, pour it into an airtight container, leaving the croutons out to maintain freshness. You can keep the soup in the refrigerator for three to four days.
How to Reheat this Soup?
To reheat your French onion soup, pour it into a saucepan and warm it over medium heat until it reaches a gentle boil. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly and thoroughly. For those eager to replicate the true French onion soup experience, elevate your dish by adding freshly broiled slices of bread topped with melted cheese to the reheated soup. cheese, just like when it was originally prepared. If you’re pressed for time or looking for a faster alternative, you can opt for store-bought croutons and pre-shredded cheese. This way, you can still savor the rich, savory flavors of the soup without the extra preparation.
How to Freeze this Soup?
French onion soup freezes well, but be sure to leave out the croutons before freezing, as they can become soggy. It’s best to add fresh croutons when ready to enjoy the soup. Once the soup has cooled completely, pour it into an airtight, freezer-safe container to preserve its flavor and freshness. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months without losing quality. For added convenience, you might want to freeze the soup in individual portions, making it easier to reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it.
How to Thaw Frozen this Soup?
To thaw your frozen French onion soup, move it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it defrost gradually overnight. This method ensures that the soup retains its flavor and texture. If you’re in a hurry and need a faster solution, you can expedite the process by placing the sealed container in a bowl of cold water. Be sure to change the water occasionally to maintain a cool temperature, which will help the soup thaw more evenly and safely. This faster method allows you to enjoy your soup without compromising quality.
Steps to Make French Onion Soup
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups thinly sliced onions
- 5 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons dry sherry
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices French bread
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 2 slices of Swiss cheese, diced into small pieces.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1:
Prepare all your ingredients before starting.
Step 2:
In a large 8-quart stockpot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and stir regularly until they are soft and translucent, taking care not to let them brown.
Step 3:
Pour in the beef broth, sherry, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 30 minutes.
Step 4:
As the soup simmers, set your oven to preheat the broiler.
Step 5:
Once the soup has finished cooking, ladle it into oven-safe bowls. Place a slice of French bread on top of each serving (feel free to break the bread into smaller pieces if desired). Next, layer the bread with a slice of provolone cheese, half a slice of chopped Swiss, and a tablespoon of grated Parmesan.
Step 6:
Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Serve immediately and enjoy your delightful French onion soup!
Conclusion
French onion soup is a timeless, comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of caramelized onions, savory beef broth, and melted cheese over crusty bread. Its simple ingredients and indulgent finish make it a favorite for many. Whether you’re new to French onion soup or have been enjoying it for years, there’s something special about making it at home and savoring every spoonful.
We invite you to try this classic recipe in your own kitchen and experience the satisfying taste for yourself. We’d love to hear your thoughts. Let us know your thoughts, and share your personal twist on this beloved dish!