Step-by-step instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Halve, peel, and thinly slice the onions, adding them to the pot and stirring well to coat with oil.
3. Add the brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce. Cook the onions, stirring every few minutes, until they turn deep golden brown and become richly caramelized.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. If using, add the butter and sprinkle in the flour, stirring to combine for added thickness and richness.
6. Pour in the wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor.
7. Stir in the beef stock, along with the thyme bundle and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
8. Season with kosher salt and black pepper. Adjust as necessary for balance.
9. Discard the thyme stems and bay leaf, then ladle the soup into heat-safe bowls or crocks.
10. Top with toasted French bread slices and sprinkle the Gruyere and mozzarella cheeses over each bowl.
11. Place under the broiler until the cheese melts, browns, and bubbles, forming a golden crust. Serve hot.

How to plate and pair

To make your French Onion Soup even more inviting, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed with a vinaigrette. A light side of roasted vegetables can complement the rich soup beautifully. For a cozy dining experience, serve with a crusty baguette and perhaps a light, fruity wine like a Sauvignon Blanc to elevate the meal.

Keeping leftovers fresh

If you have some soup left over, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop. If you want to freeze it, leave out the bread and cheese, as these ingredients do not freeze well. Store the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before adding fresh bread and cheese.

Helpful cooking tips

• Patience is key; let the onions caramelize slowly to fully develop their sweetness.
• For extra depth of flavor, you can experiment with different types of stock or even try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar.
• If you’re short on time, pressure cooking the onions can accelerate the caramelization, though traditional slow cooking yields the best results.

Creative twists

Feel free to add your personal spin to this Classic French Onion Soup. You might incorporate a splash of brandy for an extra kick or swap in a different cheese like fontina or Parmesan for a unique flavor. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable stock and skip the Worcestershire sauce, or try adding sautéed mushrooms for an earthy touch.

FAQs

How long does it take to make French Onion Soup?

From start to finish, you can expect about an hour of cooking time, with most of that being devoted to caramelizing the onions.

Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While Gruyere and mozzarella are traditional choices for their melting qualities, feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or horseradish cheddar for a zingy twist.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes! Just remember to freeze the soup without the bread and cheese. Add them fresh before serving for a better texture upon reheating.

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