Classic French Onion Soup

This rich and savory French Onion Soup, topped with crusty bread and melted cheese, is a timeless comfort dish that’s perfect for cold days or cozy dinners.

Ingredients:

• 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 4 cups beef broth (or a combination of beef and chicken broth for a milder flavor)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 baguette, sliced into rounds
• 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)

Instructions:

1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and salt, stirring well to coat the onions with butter and oil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions begin to soften.
2. Add Sugar and Cook: Sprinkle the sugar over the onions, which will help with caramelization. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, for another 20-25 minutes, or until the onions are a deep golden brown.
3. Add Garlic and Wine: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. If using, pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine cook down for about 5 minutes.
4. Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaf and thyme. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for another 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Add salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
5. Prepare the Bread: While the soup simmers, preheat your oven’s broiler. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and broil until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.
6. Assemble and Broil: Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a toasted baguette slice on top of each bowl, and generously sprinkle with Gruyère cheese. Place the bowls under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes. Be sure to keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
7. Garnish and Serve: Carefully remove the bowls from the oven (they’ll be hot!). Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired and serve immediately.

Tips:

• Caramelizing the onions is the most crucial step for flavor. Take your time to achieve a deep golden color, which will give the soup its characteristic sweetness and depth.
• Use good-quality cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
• Serve with extra bread for dipping!

Enjoy this hearty and flavorful French Onion Soup, perfect for a cozy night in!