Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat the butter and olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and stir occasionally. Cook them for about 40-45 minutes, until they’re golden brown and caramelized. This step is crucial for the flavor, so be patient. Stir frequently to prevent burning, but let them develop that deep, rich color.
- Deglaze the Pot: Once the onions are caramelized, pour in the white wine to deglaze the pot. Scrape up any flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine cook down for about 5 minutes.
- Add the Broth: Pour in the beef broth, add the thyme and bay leaves, and bring the soup to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Prepare the Bread: While the soup simmers, lightly toast the slices of baguette. You can do this in a toaster or under the broiler in your oven until golden and crispy.
- Assemble the Soup: Once the soup is done simmering, ladle it into oven-safe bowls. Place a slice of the toasted baguette on top of each bowl of soup, then generously sprinkle with grated cheese.
- Broil the Soup: Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the bowls from the oven, let them cool slightly, and serve your delicious French Onion Soup with a side of crusty bread. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this classic dish!
Notes
When making French Onion Soup, patience is key. The caramelization of the onions takes time, but it’s what gives the soup its depth of flavor. Don’t rush this step. Also, feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. The flavors in the soup will develop as it simmers, so a little extra seasoning at the end can make all the difference.