Onion Soup with Melted Cheese

Onion Soup with Melted Cheese Recipe from France

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Onion soup with melted cheese is a classic French dish that is both comforting and delicious. The combination of sweet caramelized onions, savory beef broth, and gooey melted cheese makes for a perfect winter meal.

History

Onion soup has been a popular dish in France for centuries. It was originally a peasant dish, made with simple ingredients that were readily available. Over time, the recipe has evolved and become a staple in French cuisine.

Ingredients

0.25 cup unsalted butter
4 large white onions, thinly sliced
1 tsp sugar
1 tbsp flour
3 cans (10.5 oz / 298 g each) beef broth
1 can of water (using the broth can)
0.25 cup dry red wine
0.33 cup garlic flavored croutons
4 slices of swiss cheese

How to prepare

Preheat the broiler. In a saucepan, melt the butter. Add the onions and stir to coat them with the butter. Cover the saucepan and cook for 8 minutes. Add the sugar and cook uncovered until the onions are slightly golden. Add the flour and cook for an additional 1 minute. Stir in the broth, water, and wine. Cover the saucepan and simmer for 5 minutes. Place 4 bowls on a baking sheet. Put croutons in each bowl. Divide the soup among the bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of cheese. Broil for 3 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Place the bowls on serving plates and serve with crackers.

Variations

Add a splash of sherry or brandy for extra flavor.
Top the soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley.
Use different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or cheddar.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be patient when caramelizing the onions. It takes time for them to develop their sweet flavor.

- Use a good quality beef broth for the best flavor.

- Don't skip the step of broiling the cheese on top of the soup. It adds a deliciously gooey texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve onion soup with melted cheese with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Caramelizing the onions is the key technique in this recipe. Be sure to cook them slowly over low heat to develop their sweet flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version.

- Use gluten-free flour and croutons for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

The soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add the cheese and broil just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the soup in individual oven-safe bowls for a rustic presentation. Top with a sprig of fresh thyme for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Onion soup with melted cheese pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of onion soup with melted cheese contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of onion soup with melted cheese contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of onion soup with melted cheese contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of onion soup with melted cheese contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Onion soup with melted cheese is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and gluten (flour in the croutons).

Summary

Onion soup with melted cheese is a hearty and satisfying dish that is relatively high in calories and fat. However, it is also a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Onion soup with melted cheese is a classic French dish that is both comforting and delicious. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy night in.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a chilly autumn afternoon, and I had just finished a long day of work in the kitchen. As I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother, a recipe caught my eye - Onion Soup with Melted Cheese.

I had never made onion soup before, but something about the warm, comforting flavors called out to me. The instructions seemed simple enough, so I decided to give it a try. Little did I know that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come.

As I gathered the ingredients - onions, butter, flour, beef broth, and of course, a generous amount of cheese - I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. I followed the recipe step by step, taking my time to sauté the onions until they were perfectly caramelized and adding the broth slowly to let the flavors meld together.

The aroma that filled my kitchen as the soup simmered on the stove was intoxicating. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of my labor. When the soup was ready, I ladled it into bowls and topped it with a thick layer of grated cheese. I then placed the bowls under the broiler, watching with anticipation as the cheese bubbled and melted to perfection.

Finally, it was time to taste the soup. The first spoonful was like a warm hug on a cold day. The rich, savory broth paired perfectly with the sweet caramelized onions, and the melted cheese added a creamy richness that tied everything together. I couldn't believe how delicious it was - I had truly stumbled upon a culinary gem.

From that day on, Onion Soup with Melted Cheese became a favorite in my household. I made it for special occasions and casual weeknight dinners alike, always receiving rave reviews from my family and friends. But the best part was knowing that this recipe had come to me by chance, a simple discovery in an old cookbook that had been gathering dust on my shelf.

Over the years, I've made a few tweaks to the recipe, adding my own personal touch here and there. Sometimes I'll throw in a splash of white wine for a bit of extra depth, or experiment with different cheeses to create new flavor profiles. But no matter how I choose to prepare it, the essence of the dish remains the same - a hearty, comforting bowl of soup that warms the soul.

As I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Onion Soup with Melted Cheese, I can't help but feel grateful for the serendipitous moment that led me to this recipe. It's a reminder that sometimes the best things in life come when we least expect them, waiting to be discovered in the most unlikely of places. And for that, I am truly thankful.