Joe Roshkovsky
French Onion Baked Soup: A Rich and Hearty Classic with Caramelized Onions and Gruyère Cheese
“`html
French Onion Baked Soup is a timeless, comforting dish that showcases the sweet, savory flavors of caramelized onions immersed in a rich beef broth, topped with a delightful layer of melted Gruyère cheese and crunchy croutons. Perfect for a cozy winter evening or a sophisticated starter for any special meal, this soup warms both the heart and soul.
Ingredients:
– 4 large brown or yellow onions, thinly sliced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 bay leaf
– 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent. This should take about 20 minutes.
2. Caramelize the Onions: Increase heat to medium-high and continue to cook the onions, stirring frequently, until they turn a deep golden brown (caramelized), about another 15-20 minutes. Be careful not to burn them.
3. Add Garlic and Flour: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Sprinkle the flour over the onions, stir well, and cook for 2 more minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
4. Deglaze and Simmer: If using, add the white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Cook for a few minutes until the wine is mostly evaporated. Add the beef broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Prepare the Bread: While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sliced baguette rounds on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until they are golden brown and crisp, about 10 minutes.
6. Assemble and Bake: Preheat your broiler. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls, place a toasted baguette slice on top of each bowl, and sprinkle generously with shredded Gruyère cheese. Place the bowls under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 3-5 minutes. Keep a close watch so it doesn’t burn.
7. Serve: Carefully remove the bowls from the oven (they will be very hot!) and serve the soup immediately. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors, and the satisfying combination of crunchy bread and gooey cheese.
This French Onion Baked Soup is the perfect mix of hearty and elegant, sure to impress your guests or provide a comforting meal at home.
“`
