Certainly! Classical French onion soup, or “soupe à l’oignon,” is a comforting and flavorful dish known for its rich aroma and savory taste. It’s a staple of French cuisine, famous for its caramelized onions, beef broth, and cheese topping. Here’s a guide on how to prepare this classic dish, along with suggested side dishes that would complement the meal.
Classic French Onion Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
For the soup:
4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar (to aid in caramelization)
4 cups beef broth (or a combination of beef and chicken broth)
1 cup dry white wine (optional)
1 bay leaf
12 sprigs of fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Baguette or crusty bread, sliced
2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (or a mix of Gruyère and Emmental)
Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large pot, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Stir to coat the onions.
Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are soft and golden brown, about 2530 minutes. Be patient, as this step is crucial for developing the sweet, deep flavor.
2. Add Broth and Simmer:
Once caramelized, add the white wine (if using) and deglaze the pot, scraping any bits off the bottom.
Add the beef broth, bay leaf, thyme, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
3. Prepare Bread:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the sliced baguette on a baking sheet and toast it in the oven until lightly golden.
4. Assemble and Bake:
Remove the bay leaf and thyme from the soup. Ladle the soup into ovensafe bowls (or French onion soup crocks), top each with a slice of toasted bread, and generously sprinkle with grated cheese.
Place the bowls on a baking sheet and bake in the oven until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown, about 1015 minutes.
5. Serve:
Carefully remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme or chives if desired.
Suggested Side Dishes:
To complement your French onion soup, consider these side dishes:
1. Salad Lyonnaise:
A classic French salad made with frisée lettuce, lardons (crispy bacon), poached eggs, and a Dijon vinaigrette. The bitterness of the greens balances the richness of the soup.
2. Grilled or Roasted Asparagus:
Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and grill or roast until tender. This adds a nutritious and fresh element to the meal.
3. Herbed Quinoa or Rice:
A simple side of quinoa or rice seasoned with fresh herbs can provide a light contrast to the heavy soup.
4. Cheese Plate:
A selection of French cheeses (such as Brie, Camembert, or Roquefort) with crusty bread and fruits like grapes or figs can serve as a delightful accompaniment.
5. Steamed Green Beans:
Lightly steamed green beans tossed with butter, lemon, and a sprinkle of almonds offer a fresh, crunchy texture.
With these recipes and ideas, you can create a beautiful and memorable French dining experience right at home! Enjoy your meal!