Streamlined French Onion Soup

Streamlined French Onion Soup Recipe from Switzerland - Onions, Leeks, Garlic, Swiss, Green Onions, White Wine, Beef Stock, Parsley

Region / culture: Switzerland | Servings: 4

Introduction

French onion soup is a classic dish that is both comforting and flavorful. This streamlined version of the traditional recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for a cozy night in.

History

French onion soup has been a staple in French cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Paris in the 18th century, where it was a popular dish among the working class. The soup is traditionally made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and topped with a slice of bread and melted cheese.

Ingredients

4 cups chopped onions
4.5 inches-thick slices of crusty whole wheat bread
3 cups leeks (white and green parts only)
1 garlic clove, peeled and halved
2 tbsp grated low-fat swiss or gruyère cheese
1 bunch of green onions, thinly sliced
2 cups dry white wine
4 cups beef stock or canned unsalted broth
1 tbsp fresh parsley

How to prepare

Combine the first 3 ingredients in a large nonstick saucepan.
Cover and cook over medium-low heat until the vegetables are tender and pale golden, stirring frequently, for about 25 minutes.
Add the wine, increase the heat to high, and boil uncovered until the liquid is reduced by half, approximately 5 minutes.
Add the beef stock and reduce the heat to medium. Simmer until the vegetables are very tender and the liquid is slightly reduced, about 35 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Arrange the bread slices on a cookie sheet.
Rub each slice with the cut side of a garlic clove.
Bake the bread until lightly toasted, about 10 minutes.
Sprinkle each slice with 0.5 tbsp of cheese, then return to the oven and bake until the cheese melts, about 3 minutes.
Place the bread slices in 4 bowls.
Ladle the soup over the bread slices.
Sprinkle with parsley.

Variations

Add a splash of sherry or brandy for extra depth of flavor.
Top the soup with a poached egg for a rich and creamy twist.
Use different types of cheese, such as gruyere or Swiss, for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be patient when caramelizing the onions, as this process can take some time but is essential for developing the rich flavor of the soup.

- Use a mix of yellow and red onions for a more complex flavor profile.

- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

- To save time, you can use pre-sliced onions from the grocery store.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the French onion soup with a side salad or a crusty baguette for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Caramelizing the onions is the key to this recipe. Be sure to cook them low and slow until they are golden brown and sweet.

- Simmering the soup for an extended period of time allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich, savory taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

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

- Substitute gluten-free bread 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. Simply reheat on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the French onion soup with a crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 38g

- Dietary Fiber: 5g

- Sugars: 10g

Fats

- Total Fat: 6g

- Saturated Fat: 3g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 8g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 15% DV

- Calcium: 15% DV

- Iron: 8% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheese)

Summary

This streamlined French onion soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is high in fiber and protein. It is a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and iron.

Summary

This streamlined French onion soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With its rich flavor and hearty ingredients, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a joyful one. It was a cold winter day, and I was feeling a bit under the weather. As I sat at my kitchen table, trying to think of something warm and comforting to make for dinner, I remembered a conversation I had with an old friend many years ago.

She had told me about a delicious French onion soup recipe that was not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful. I had never tried making French onion soup before, but I decided to give it a go. I dug through my recipe box and found the handwritten note my friend had given me all those years ago.

The recipe was simple and straightforward, with just a handful of ingredients. I gathered up some onions, butter, beef broth, and a few other key ingredients, and set to work in the kitchen. As the soup simmered on the stove, the aroma that filled my kitchen was absolutely heavenly.

I couldn't resist sneaking a taste, and I was blown away by how delicious it was. The onions were perfectly caramelized, the broth was rich and flavorful, and the cheese on top added just the right amount of gooey goodness. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I have made this streamlined French onion soup countless times, each time tweaking the recipe and adding my own personal touches. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about how delicious it is. It has become a beloved dish in my household, especially during the colder months when a warm bowl of soup is just what the doctor ordered.

I often think back to that cold winter day when I first discovered this recipe, and how it has brought so much joy and comfort into my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and finding new recipes to try and share with others is something that brings me great joy.

As I sit at my kitchen table now, stirring a pot of French onion soup on the stove, I can't help but feel grateful for all the wonderful recipes I have collected over the years. Each one tells a story, whether it's a cherished family recipe passed down through generations or a new discovery that brings a fresh twist to my culinary creations.

I am constantly on the lookout for new recipes to try, always eager to expand my culinary horizons and add new flavors and techniques to my cooking repertoire. But no matter how many new recipes I try, this streamlined French onion soup will always hold a special place in my heart.

As I ladle the steaming soup into bowls and top it with a generous sprinkling of cheese, I can't help but smile. This recipe may have come from a friend many years ago, but it has become a part of me, a dish that I will continue to make and share for years to come. Cooking is not just about following instructions and combining ingredients – it's about creating something special, something that brings people together and warms the soul.

And for me, this streamlined French onion soup is the perfect embodiment of that sentiment. It's a dish that is simple yet elegant, comforting yet sophisticated. It's a dish that tells a story, a story of friendship, discovery, and the joy of sharing delicious food with the ones you love. And that, to me, is what cooking is all about.