Nothing says comfort food quite like a bowl of classic French onion soup. Here, you’ll find the ultimate recipe for the best French onion soup that will bring warmth to your dinner table. This recipe calls for a few simple ingredients and requires some patience as you caramelize the onions. But once your masterpiece is finished, you’ll have a delicious dish that will have everyone asking for more!

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3-4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 4 cups chicken broth or beef broth (vegetable broth can be used if desired)
  • 1/4 cup wine for french onion soup, white wine or red wine (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 6 slices of baguette or French bread, lightly toasted
  • 6 ounces grated Swiss cheese or Parmesan cheese (or both)

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the onions and cook for about 15 minutes, until they are soft and translucent.
  2. Add the minced garlic and thyme, and continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions start to turn golden brown in color.
  3. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and let it cook into the onions for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Then add in the chicken broth and white wine (if using), and stir to combine everything well.
  5. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a lid. Simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the caramelized onions are very tender and cooked through.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
  7. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls, then top with one or two pieces of toasted bread and a heaping tablespoon of grated cheese.
  8. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until melted cheese is bubbly.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with salt and pepper if desired. Enjoy!

French onion soup FAQs

What pairs with French Onion Soup?

Grilled cheese sandwich. The bread and cheese in the sandwich help to absorb some of the saltiness and sweetness of the soup. And, of course, it's a delicious combination!

What kind of wine do you put in soup?

There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to mixing wine with soup, but a good rule of thumb is to opt for a light red or a dry white. As long as you stick with wines that have acidity and sweetness levels that compliment the soup's flavors, you can't really go wrong.

What does wine do in soup?

The wine in French onion soup helps to balance the sweetness of the onions with the acidity of the broth. It also adds a depth of flavor that can't be achieved with just broth alone.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a classic and comforting dish, look no further than this French onion soup recipe. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this soup is sure to please everyone at your dinner table. So next time you’re in the mood for something warm and delicious, give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!

Share this post