Soupe A L'Oignon(French Onion Soup; France.)
A classic French onion soup featuring caramelized onions in a rich beef broth, perfect for comforting meals and savory flavors that suit all seasons.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy 4 to 5-quart saucepan or soup kettle, melt the butter with the oil over moderate heat.
- Stir in the onions and teaspoon salt and cook, uncovered, over low heat, stirring occasionally for 20 to 30 minutes or until the onions are a rich golden brown.
- Sprinkle flour over the onions and cook, stirring, for 2 or 3 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the heat.
- In a separate saucepan, bring the stock to a simmer.
- Stir the hot stock into the onions.
- Return the soup to low heat and simmer, partially covered, for another 30 to 40 minutes, occasionally skimming off the fat.
- Taste for seasoning and add salt and pepper if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or sherry to the onions after they caramelize. If you're short on beef stock, a combination of chicken stock and water can work as a substitute. Using a combination of yellow and sweet onions can enhance the sweetness of the soup. To achieve a richer flavor, try finishing with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or a dash of balsamic vinegar.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot in bowls, topped with crusty bread and melted cheese, preferably Gruyère or Swiss. A fresh green salad pairs beautifully with this dish, adding a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a savory dish like My Friend Natalie Grossiner'S Stuffed Cabbage. Enjoy with a glass of dry white wine for a complete experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve the texture of the onions. If you’d like to freeze the soup, do so without the cheese and croutons, and it can last up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Soupe A L'Oignon(French Onion Soup; France.) contains roughly 727 calories, with 11g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2765mg per serving (120% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by using vegetable stock instead of beef stock. To enhance the flavor, consider adding soy sauce or miso paste, which can provide depth and umami. Also, using a mixture of mushrooms can give a wonderful richness to the soup.
How do I achieve the perfect caramelization of onions?
The key to perfectly caramelized onions is low and slow cooking. Start with medium heat to soften the onions, then reduce to low heat to allow them to brown without burning. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking; this process can take around 30 minutes, but the rich flavor is well worth the wait.
What type of cheese works best for topping?
Gruyère cheese is traditional and melts beautifully, creating that classic topping for French onion soup. However, you can also use Swiss cheese or even a mix of cheeses like mozzarella for a gooey texture. For added flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top before broiling to achieve a crispy, golden crust.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).