French onion soup is a classic and comforting dish that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with rich beef broth and gooey melted cheese. With this recipe, you can create a delicious bowl of French onion soup right in your own kitchen. Perfect as a starter or a light meal, this soup is sure to warm your soul.
INGREDIENTS:
- 4 cups thinly sliced onions
- 1/2 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 4 slices French bread, toasted
- 1/2 cup shredded Swiss cheese
INSTRUCTIONS:
- In a soup pot, cook the onions, sugar, and pepper in vegetable oil over medium heat until the onions are caramelized. This will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Stir the mixture often to prevent burning.
- Once the onions are caramelized, add the beef broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- While the soup simmers, toast the slices of French bread until they are golden and crispy.
- When the soup is ready, ladle it into ovenproof bowls.
- Place a slice of toasted French bread on top of each bowl of soup.
- Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the bread and soup.
- Preheat the broiler in your oven.
- Place the bowls of soup on a baking sheet and broil them until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Carefully remove the bowls from the oven and serve the French onion soup hot.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- For an extra depth of flavor, you can deglaze the pot with a splash of red or white wine after caramelizing the onions before adding the beef broth.
- If you prefer a stronger cheese flavor, you can substitute Gruyère cheese for Swiss cheese.
- Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Enjoy the comforting and rich flavors of homemade French onion soup. The combination of caramelized onions, flavorful broth, and melted cheese is truly a treat for the taste buds.
