A Gourmet Twist on French Onion Soup

Indulge in the pinnacle of comfort and sophistication with the perfect French Onion Soup adorned with croutons and a lavish layer of melted cheese. Elevating this classic, I’ve added my signature Homemade Croutons, ensuring that every aspect of this recipe elicits awe from anyone who experiences its culinary prowess.

This French Onion Soup is unrivaled – surpassing even the offerings of upscale restaurants. Follow the recipe meticulously, and you’ll discover the sheer brilliance of this dish. Undoubtedly, it’s the ideal choice if you aim to leave an indelible impression on your family and friends.

When crafting this soup, prioritize the quality of your ingredients. Opt for premium butter, such as Challenge Butter, renowned for its purity and consistent flavor, vital for letting the rich, buttery taste shine through.

What Kind of Onions Are Best for French Onion Soup?

My recipe features both red and sweet onions, strategically chosen for their distinct flavor profiles. Red onions, with their purplish-red skin, add a visual appeal, while sweet onions contribute a milder sweetness. The interplay of these two varieties creates a harmonious flavor balance. When selecting onions, prioritize firmness, a crackly outer skin, and a mild scent. An overwhelming scent may signal impending spoilage.

For that desired soft, almost sticky consistency, follow the cooking steps precisely. Note that the onions might not appear caramelized initially, as Worcestershire sauce is introduced later. To achieve a caramelized look, consider adding Worcestershire during the initial simmering stage.

Homemade Croutons with French Onion Soup

While a thick slice of French bread is a classic accompaniment, maneuvering can be challenging. Enter Homemade Croutons – a perfect alternative. These croutons, exquisitely crafted, complement the French Onion Soup flawlessly. Each bite offers a delightful fusion of soup, crouton, and cheese, ensuring satisfaction till the very last drop.

In this recipe, we paired the soup with Shiraz for an exquisite dining experience. Picture a spread of fresh side salad, French Onion Soup, and a glass of Shiraz – a dinner not just good but truly extraordinary!

Ingredients

Soup

• 4 tablespoons (57 g) Challenge salted butter
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 large red onions, thinly sliced (about 5 cups)
• 2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced (about 5 cups)
• 4 cups (950 ml) chicken broth
• 4 cups (950 ml) beef broth
• ½ cup (120 ml) red wine
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 sprigs fresh parsley
• 1 sprig fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Topping

• 4 cups large homemade croutons
• 2 cups (216 g) Gruyere cheese, shredded
• 2 cups (160 g) Asiago cheese, shredded

Instructions

Soup

1. Melt butter in a large pot or Dutch Oven over medium-high heat.
2. Stir in salt, red onions, and sweet onions. Cook for 35 minutes until onions are sticky and almost syrupy. (Onions will be translucent.)
3. Add chicken broth, beef broth, red wine, and Worcestershire sauce. Bundle parsley and thyme with twine, add to the pot. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove and discard the herbs.
4. Reduce heat to low, mix in balsamic vinegar, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Topping

1. Preheat oven broiler.
2. Arrange 4 large oven-safe bowls or crocks on a rimmed baking sheet. Fill each bowl ⅔ full with hot soup.
3. Top each bowl with 5-6 toasted croutons (about 1 cup), ½ cup Gruyere cheese, and ½ cup of Asiago cheese.
4. Broil for 4-5 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. Keep a close eye on them!
5. Serve immediately.