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Classic French Onion Soup

A quintessential French dish defined by slow-cooked, deeply caramelized onions, a rich savory broth, and a crispy, cheesy gratin topping.

Hard 15 min prep 75 min cook 90 min total 4 servings 4.9/10
Ready in
90 minutes

Makes 4 servings

About This Recipe

A quintessential French dish defined by slow-cooked, deeply caramelized onions, a rich savory broth, and a crispy, cheesy gratin topping.

A restaurant-quality soup that rewards your patience with complex, savory flavors.

Ratings

Expert Rating
4.9
95% confidence
Final Score
4.9
90% confidence

Category Scores

10.0
Taste
9.0
Difficulty
10.0
Presentation
7.0
Nutrition
8.5
Value
9.5
Instructions
9.0
Ingredients
9.0
Time Accuracy
9.0
Would Make Again
9.4
Overall

Video

Cooking Timeline

Prep 15 min
Cook 75 min
  1. Step 1
  2. Step 2
  3. Step 3
  4. Step 4
  5. Step 5 5 min

Ingredients

Soup

Topping

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot Dutch oven ideal
  • Oven-safe bowls Ramekins or crocks
  • Baking sheet

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large pot, melt butter and add sliced onions. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized (about 45 minutes).

  2. 2

    Add white wine to deglaze the pan, then add broth. Simmer for 20-30 minutes.

  3. 3

    Preheat oven broiler.

  4. 4

    Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each with a toasted baguette slice and a generous handful of Gruyère cheese.

  5. 5

    Place bowls on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

    5 min

Nutrition

Calories 390
Protein 16g
Carbs 35g
Fat 20g
Fiber 4g
Sugar 12g
Sodium 950g
Serving Size 1 bowl

Expert Review

Verdict

The ultimate soul-warming comfort food that relies on the slow caramelization of onions.

Pros

  • Deep flavor
  • Classic presentation
  • Excellent for chilly days

Cons

  • Requires time for onions

Overview

A restaurant-quality soup that rewards your patience with complex, savory flavors.

AI Insights

Summary

A quintessential French dish defined by slow-cooked, deeply caramelized onions, a rich savory broth, and a crispy, cheesy gratin topping.

Tips

  • Use a mix of yellow and red onions for extra sweetness
  • Don't rush the caramelization process; this is where the flavor comes from
  • Ensure your bowls are oven-safe before placing under the broiler

Substitutions

  • Gruyère → Emmental or Comté cheese
  • Beef broth → Vegetable broth for a vegetarian version

Storage

Store soup base in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Assemble with bread and cheese when ready to serve.

Pairing

Full-bodied red wine Light mixed green salad

AI Cooking Assistant

Ask questions about this recipe — substitutions, timing, or technique.

Open Cooking Assistant

FAQ

How do I get perfect caramelized onions?
Patience is key. Keep the heat low and stir often to ensure they don't burn.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, the soup base improves in flavor the next day. Add the bread and cheese right before broiling.

About the Author

FindEdition Kitchen

Recipe tested and reviewed by the FindEdition culinary team.

Specialty: French cuisine

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