French Onion Soup

Transport yourself to the quaint streets of Paris with each spoonful of Classic French Onion Soup. This timeless dish combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions, savory broth, and melted cheese, resulting in a culinary masterpiece that warms the soul and delights the senses. Join me as we embark on a journey to recreate this iconic soup in your own kitchen, where every bite is a celebration of comfort and elegance.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups thinly sliced yellow sweet onions
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 can (15-ounce) chicken broth
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 chicken bouillon cubes
• 1/4 cup compressed Velveeta cheese (cubed or shredded)
• 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 cups Thick White Sauce (recipe below)
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese for garnish

Instructions:

1. Caramelizing Onions:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 25-30 minutes.
2. Creating Base:
   • Once onions are caramelized, add chicken broth, salt, pepper, and chicken bouillon cubes to the pot. Stir well to combine.
3. Simmering Soup:
   • Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Making White Sauce:
   • In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and salt, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and bubbly, about 1 minute.
5. Thickening Sauce:
   • Gradually whisk in whole milk, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
6. Combining Soup and Sauce:
   • Add the prepared Thick White Sauce and Velveeta cheese to the pot of soup, stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through.
7. Serving:
   • Ladle the French Onion Soup into individual serving bowls. Top each bowl with shredded Cheddar cheese for an extra layer of indulgence.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Bread Topping: For a classic French Onion Soup experience, top each serving with a toasted baguette slice before adding the shredded Cheddar cheese. Place the bowls under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit the chicken bouillon cubes for a vegetarian-friendly version of this soup.
• Enhanced Flavor: Add a splash of dry sherry or red wine to the soup during the simmering process for an extra depth of flavor.
• Herbaceous Twist: Stir in a teaspoon of dried thyme or a tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley to the soup for an herbal touch.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Keto Option: Replace the Thick White Sauce with a keto-friendly alternative made from heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Omit the flour and use a low-carb thickener such as xanthan gum.
• Low-Carb Option: Reduce the amount of onions used in the recipe to lower the carb count. Use a low-carb chicken broth or bone broth, and skip the Thick White Sauce altogether, opting for a thinner soup consistency.

French Onion Soup is a timeless classic that transcends culinary trends and delights generations with its rich flavors and comforting warmth. From the caramelized sweetness of the onions to the creamy richness of the cheese-topped broth, each spoonful is a journey to the heart of French cuisine. Whether enjoyed as a starter to a gourmet meal or as a cozy dinner on a chilly evening, this recipe promises to elevate your dining experience with its elegance and flavor. So gather your ingredients, don your apron, and let the aroma of simmering onions whisk you away to a culinary paradise.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use a different type of cheese for garnish? Absolutely! While shredded Cheddar cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as Gruyere, Swiss, or Parmesan for a unique flavor twist.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, French Onion Soup actually tastes better when made ahead of time as the flavors have a chance to meld together. Simply store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

3. Can I freeze French Onion Soup? While the soup can be frozen, keep in mind that the texture of the onions may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, omit the Thick White Sauce and cheese garnish, adding them fresh when reheating the soup.

4. Can I make this soup without Velveeta cheese? Certainly! Velveeta cheese adds creaminess to the soup, but it can be omitted if desired. You can also substitute with another type of processed cheese or omit it altogether for a lighter version of the soup.

5. Can I use beef broth instead of chicken broth? Yes, beef broth can be used for a richer flavor profile. Adjust seasoning as needed based on the saltiness of the broth.