Few dishes are as comforting as a bowl of Old Fashioned French Onion Soup. Known for its rich, caramelized onion base and cheesy topping, this soup is a perfect choice for cozy dinners or as a starter for special occasions. In this article, I will instruct you how to make French onion soup perfectly at home.
1. Old Fashioned French Onion Soup Recipe (4 Servings)
Ingredients
- 3 sweet onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon salted butter, softened
- 2 bay leaves (tej patta)
- 2 tablespoons corn flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup vegetable stock
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated gruyere cheese
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnishing
- Baguette slices, for serving
Instructions
Caramelize the Onions
Begin by melting the salted butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped sweet onions and garlic, stirring occasionally. Let the onions cook slowly until they turn golden brown and caramelized, which should take about 15–20 minutes. This step is crucial for developing the rich flavor of the soup.
Add Aromatics and Flour
Toss in the bay leaves and sprinkle the corn flour over the caramelized onions. Stir continuously for a minute to cook the flour and ensure it blends with the onions.
Incorporate Liquids
Gradually pour in the milk and vegetable stock while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Season and Finish
Add salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves and ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a slice of baguette on top of each serving and sprinkle generously with grated gruyere cheese.
Broil for a Perfect Finish
Place the bowls under a broiler for 2–3 minutes or until the cheese melts and turns golden. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.
2. Tips to Perfect French Onion Soup
Choose the Right Onions
Sweet onions are ideal due to their natural sugar content, which enhances the caramelization process. This creates the signature rich and sweet flavor of the soup.
Caramelization Patience
Don’t rush while caramelizing the onions. Low and slow cooking ensures they release their natural sweetness and develop a deep, golden color.
Use Gruyere Cheese
Gruyere cheese is traditional for French onion soup thanks to its nutty flavor and excellent melting properties. If unavailable, substitute with Swiss cheese or mozzarella.
Fresh Baguette
Use slightly stale baguette slices for the best texture. Fresh bread can become too soggy, while slightly firmer slices hold up better in the broth.
Broil with Care
Keep an eye on the soup while broiling to prevent the cheese from burning. The goal is a golden, bubbly topping.
3. What to Eat With French Onion Soup
French onion soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few suggestions:
Salads: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the soup’s richness.
Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts make a hearty side dish.
Charcuterie Board: Serve alongside a selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives for an elegant appetizer spread.
Wine: A glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir enhances the meal’s flavors.
4. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them properly to maintain their flavor and texture:
Storage: Transfer any leftover soup (without the baguette and cheese topping) to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling, as it can alter the texture. For individual servings, microwave the soup in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through.
Cheese and Bread: When reheating, add fresh baguette slices and grated cheese before broiling. This ensures the toppings remain crispy and fresh.
Old fashioned French onion soup is a culinary classic that’s easy to prepare and endlessly satisfying. With the right ingredients, a little patience, and attention to detail, you can recreate this timeless dish in your own kitchen. Serve it with complementary sides, and don’t forget to enjoy every spoonful of its rich, cheesy goodness!