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classic French onion soup

Classic French Onion Soup close-up

Warm up with a bowl of classic French onion soup, featuring caramelized onions in a rich beef broth, topped with crusty bread and melted Gruyère cheese. This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 8 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
  • 4 ounces Gruyère cheese, shredded

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes, or until onions are deeply caramelized.
  2. Add beef broth, red wine (if using), bay leaf, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
  3. Preheat broiler. Place baguette slices on a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes per side, or until lightly toasted.
  4. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a few toasted baguette slices and a generous amount of Gruyère cheese.
  5. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth. You can also add a splash of sherry vinegar at the end for brightness.