French Onion Soup


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French Onion Soup

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

  • 6 large yellow onions, thinly

sliced

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

  • 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
  • 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
  • 1 cup grated Swiss cheese
  • Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  • Caramelize the Onions:
    • In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Stir to coat the onions with the butter and oil.
    • Cook the onions, stirring frequently, until they turn a deep golden brown and caramelize. This will take about 45 minutes. Be patient, as this step is crucial for the soup’s flavor.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  • Prepare the Soup:
    • Add the beef broth, white wine, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot.
    • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes.
    • Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Prepare the Topping:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and bake them until they are lightly toasted, about 10 minutes.
    • Remove the baguette slices from the oven and set them aside.
  • Assemble and Bake:
    • Preheat your broiler.
    • Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls and place them on a baking sheet.
    • Place a toasted baguette slice on top of each bowl of soup.
    • Combine the Gruyère and Swiss cheeses, and generously sprinkle the cheese over the bread and soup.
    • Place the baking sheet with the soup bowls under the broiler and broil until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  • Serve:
    • Carefully remove the soup bowls from the oven.
    • Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired.
    • Serve the French onion soup hot and enjoy!

This French Onion Soup is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal. Enjoy the delicious combination of caramelized onions, savory broth, and gooey melted cheese!