Soups & Stews > International Soups & Stews > European Soups & Stews > Goulash Recipe (Hungarian)
Classic French Onion Soup
Indulge in the timeless elegance of Classic French Onion Soup. This recipe features deeply caramelized onions simmered in a rich beef broth, topped with crusty bread and melted Gruyère cheese. A comforting and sophisticated soup that's perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 3 large Yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tbsp Butter
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 8 cups Beef broth
- 1/2 cup Dry Sherry or dry white wine
- 2 Fresh thyme sprigs
- 1 Bay leaf
- 8 Baguette slices, 1-inch thick
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
Caramelizing the Onions
Melt the butter and olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 45-60 minutes, or until the onions are deeply caramelized and a rich golden-brown color. This process requires patience; don't rush it.
Deglazing the Pot
Add the dry Sherry or dry white wine to the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the alcohol evaporates.
Simmering the Soup
Pour in the beef broth and add the fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Preparing the Bread and Cheese
Preheat your broiler. Place the baguette slices on a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes per side, or until lightly toasted.
Assembling the Soup
Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf from the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with two baguette slices and sprinkle generously with shredded Gruyère cheese.
Broiling the Soup
Place the bowls under the broiler and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and lightly browned. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Serving
Serve the French Onion Soup immediately. Be careful, the bowls will be very hot!
Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product
Calories: 150 kcal
Protein: 8g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Other Considerations for Nutrition
This recipe is a good source of protein and calcium. The high sodium content from the broth should be considered. Opt for low-sodium broth if needed. Using whole-wheat baguette can increase fiber content.
FAQ
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Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use other types of cheese that melt well, such as Swiss cheese, Provolone, or a combination of Gruyère and Parmesan. -
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and proceed with topping with bread and cheese and broiling. -
Why is caramelizing the onions so important?
Caramelizing the onions is crucial for developing the deep, sweet, and savory flavor that is characteristic of French Onion Soup. It's worth the time and effort!