Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, sugar, and salt. Stir continuously for 30-40 minutes until the onions are beautifully caramelized.
2. Once the onions are golden brown, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the thyme and bay leaf. Pour in the beef broth, bringing it to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes until golden.
4. Preheat the broiler. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a toasted baguette slice and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese.
5. Set the bowls on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Keep a watchful eye to prevent burning.
6. Carefully remove the bowls from the oven and serve hot.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

French onion soup is delightful on its own, but you can elevate your experience by serving it with a side of mixed greens dressed in a light vinaigrette. Alternatively, pair it with a fresh green salad or a charcuterie board filled with cheeses and cured meats for a more lavish spread. This soup also shines as a starter for a French-themed dinner party.

How to Store & Freeze

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! To store French onion soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup without the bread and cheese, which allows for better reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw and reheat on the stove, adding fresh bread and cheese before broiling.

Helpful Cooking Tips

• Patience is key: Caramelizing the onions may take time, but each minute is worth it for the profound depth of flavor that develops.
• Don’t rush the simmer: A slow simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so resist the urge to speed it up.
• Choose your cheese wisely: Gruyère offers the best melting properties and flavor, so for the authentic experience, stick with it!

Creative Twists

Want to mix things up? Try adding a splash of white wine to the onions after they’ve caramelized for an extra layer of flavor or consider using a blend of cheeses, such as Gruyère and parmesan, for a richer topping. You could even swap the beef broth for vegetable broth for a vegetarian version—just enhance it with more herbs!

Common Questions

1. What can I use instead of yellow onions?
   While yellow onions are traditional, you can also use sweet onions, such as Vidalia, for a milder flavor, or even red onions for a different take.

2. Can I make this soup in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and simply reheat it before serving. Just don’t add the cheese until you’re ready to broil for that fresh, melty texture!

3. How long does it take to cook?
   Overall, you need about an hour to prepare this soup properly, which accounts for the caramelizing and simmering processes. However, the hands-on cooking time is much less, making it relatively straightforward.

Embrace this classic soup and bring a touch of French comfort to your table!

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