My Favorite French Onion Soup Recipe

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French onion soup is a classic dish known for its rich and savory flavor profile, achieved with minimal and affordable ingredients. Not only is this soup comforting and delicious, but it also has several health benefits.

With a base of onions and a clear broth, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or as a prelude to a more substantial dinner.

Five Reasons Your Body Will Love This Meal

1. High in Antioxidants: Onions are rich in quercetin, an antioxidant that can combat inflammation and support heart health.
2. Immune Support: The garlic and onions have antiviral and antibacterial properties, which can help boost your immune system.
3. Digestive Health: Onions are a source of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation.
4. Bone Health: Onions contain compounds that are believed to reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
5. Low in Calories: This soup is relatively low in calories, making it an excellent option for those looking to maintain or lose weight without sacrificing flavor.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 470mg

Ingredients

• 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 6 cups of beef or vegetable broth (low sodium)
• 1 teaspoon of thyme, dried
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 4 slices of whole-grain bread
• 1/2 cup of grated Gruyère cheese (or any other preferred cheese)
• Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Onions: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt, and cook, frequently stirring, until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 25 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Herbs: Add the minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf to the onions, and cook for another 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
3. Deglaze: Pour a splash of broth into the pot and scrape the bottom to deglaze the pot, releasing all the flavorful bits.
4. Simmer: Add the remaining broth and black pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for about 20 minutes to meld the flavors. Adjust salt to taste.
5. Toast the Bread: While the soup simmers, toast the whole-grain bread until it’s crisp and golden.
6. Cheese Topping: Preheat your broiler. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place a slice of toasted bread on top, and sprinkle generously with grated cheese.
7. Broil: Place the soup bowls under the broiler for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned. Be careful when removing the hot bowls from the oven.
8. Serve: Let the soup sit for a couple of minutes to cool down slightly and then serve warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is French onion soup good or bad for you?

In my opinion, French onion soup can be both delicious and relatively nutritious, depending on how it’s prepared and consumed. On the positive side, this soup is typically made with onions, which are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

However, the soup’s healthiness can be influenced by factors such as the amount of cheese and bread used in the recipe. While a moderate amount of cheese can provide calcium and protein, excessive cheese can increase the calorie and saturated fat content.

Similarly, the toasted bread or crouton topping adds texture and flavor, but it also contributes additional carbohydrates and calories. Additionally, some recipes may include high-sodium ingredients like beef broth or excessive salt for seasoning.

To make French onion soup a healthier choice, I opt for recipes that use a lighter broth base, moderate amounts of cheese, and whole-grain bread for the topping. Enjoyed in moderation and balanced with other nutritious foods, French onion soup can certainly be part of a well-rounded diet.

What’s the difference between French onion soup and onion soup?

In my experience, the main difference between French onion soup and onion soup lies in their preparation and key ingredients. French onion soup is a specific type of onion soup that is characterized by its rich and savory broth made from caramelized onions, beef broth or stock, and typically topped with toasted bread and melted cheese.

The process of caramelizing the onions gives French onion soup its deep, sweet flavor. The use of beef broth or stock enhances the umami profile of the soup. The soup is then traditionally served in individual crocks or bowls, topped with a slice of baguette or crusty bread and a generous amount of melted Gruyère or Swiss cheese, which forms a deliciously gooey crust on top when broiled.

On the other hand, onion soup can refer to a broader category of soups that feature onions as a primary ingredient. This can include various types of onion-based soups from different culinary traditions around the world, such as onion soups from British, German, or Eastern European cuisines.

These onion soups may have different flavor profiles and ingredients compared to French onion soup. For instance, they might use different types of broth, spices, or additional vegetables.

While both French onion soup and onion soup share the common element of onions as a central ingredient, the specific techniques and accompanying ingredients used in French onion soup make it distinct and iconic in its own right.

What is a fun fact about French onion soup?

A fun fact about French onion soup is that its origins are believed to date back to ancient times. Onions, the star ingredient of the soup, have been cultivated for thousands of years and were highly regarded by ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Greeks for their medicinal and culinary properties.

The modern version of French onion soup as we know it today is said to have originated in France during the 18th century. Legend has it that the soup was popularized by King Louis XV of France, who enjoyed the simple yet flavorful dish made from onions, broth, and bread. Over time, French onion soup became a staple in French cuisine and eventually gained popularity worldwide.

Its enduring appeal lies in its rustic charm, comforting flavors, and the delightful combination of sweet caramelized onions, savory broth, and gooey melted cheese—a true classic that continues to warm hearts and satisfy taste buds!

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Wrap-Up

This French onion soup embodies the essence of rustic cooking, bringing together wholesome ingredients that nourish the body and comfort the soul. Its simplicity allows the natural flavors to shine through, creating a dish that’s both grounding and elevating.

It’s a budget-friendly option that can cater to a variety of dietary needs, and with its combination of deep flavors and health benefits, it’s a dish that will leave you feeling satisfied on all levels. Enjoy this cozy bowl of goodness on any day of the week, and relish in the fact that you’re serving your body a meal that’s as beneficial as it is delicious.