There’s something truly special about a well-made French Onion Soup. This classic recipe brings together caramelized onions, a rich chicken broth, toasted bread, and melted Comté cheese to create an irresistible dish. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or enjoying it as a comforting meal, the layers of flavor in this dish never fail to impress. Using quality ingredients, such as a good dry white wine and freshly grated cheese, makes all the difference. Let’s dive into how to create this timeless masterpiece in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 500 g onions, thinly sliced
- 75 g butter
- 1 tsp flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 liters chicken broth (preferably warm)
- 100 ml dry white wine
- 1 sprig of thyme
- 1 sprig of rosemary
- Salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste
- Comté cheese, grated
- Toasted bread slices
Instructions
1. Prepare the Onions: Thinly slice the onions into fine strips.
2. Caramelize the Onions: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Melt the butter, then add the onions. Stir frequently until they become soft and slightly golden.
3. Add Flour and Sugar: Sprinkle in the flour and sugar, mixing to coat the onions. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
4. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Allow it to simmer until the liquid reduces slightly.
5. Incorporate the Broth and Seasonings: Gradually add the warm chicken broth. Stir in thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Assemble the Soup: Preheat your oven to the broil setting. Place a slice of toasted bread at the bottom of a heatproof bowl. Ladle 2–3 scoops of soup over the bread. Top with another slice of bread and a generous layer of grated Comté cheese.
7. Broil to Perfection: Place the bowl under the broiler for a few minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden crust.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and enjoy this comforting soup.
Conclusion
French Onion Soup is more than a recipe—it’s an experience. The combination of caramelized onions, warm broth, and gooey cheese atop toasted bread makes it a favorite across generations. Pair it with a crisp salad or enjoy it as a standalone dish for a satisfying meal. Bon appétit!