French Onion Soup

French Onion Soup is a classic and comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days. This recipe combines caramelized onions, rich beef broth, and a topping of toasted bread and melted cheese to create a flavorful and satisfying soup. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

  • 4 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Baguette or French bread, sliced
  • Gruyere or Swiss cheese, grated

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes, or until the onions are caramelized and golden brown.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic and stir well to coat.
  4. Gradually add the beef broth and wine (if using), stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  5. Add the bay leaf and dried thyme to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 30-40 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  7. While the soup is simmering, preheat the broiler. Place the sliced baguette or French bread on a baking sheet and toast it under the broiler until lightly browned.
  8. Remove the bay leaf from the soup and ladle the soup into individual oven-safe bowls or crocks. Top each bowl with a slice of toasted bread and sprinkle grated cheese over the bread.
  9. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Carefully remove the bowls from the oven (they will be hot!) and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

This French Onion Soup is a classic and delicious dish that will warm you up from the inside out. The combination of caramelized onions, flavorful broth, and gooey melted cheese on top makes for a truly satisfying meal. Serve it as an appetizer or a main course with a side salad. Enjoy!