Classic French Onion Soup is a beloved dish that embodies simplicity and elegance in French cuisine. Its rich history dates back centuries, rooted in the humble origins of using onions, broth, and bread as staple ingredients. What sets it apart is the slow caramelization of onions until they turn golden brown, imparting a deep, sweet flavor. Traditionally topped with toasted baguette slices and melted Gruyère cheese, each spoonful offers a comforting blend of savory broth, tender onions, and gooey cheese. This timeless soup continues to warm hearts and bring joy with its robust flavors and rustic charm.
Cozy up with a bowl of my classic French Onion Soup, topped with melted Gruyère – pure comfort in a bowl!
Ingredients:
6 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 cloves of garlic, minced
8 cups beef broth
1/2 cup dry white wine
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 baguette, sliced and toasted
1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
Directions:
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook, stirring frequently, until caramelized (about 40 minutes).
Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Pour in wine, and scrape any browned bits off the bottom of the pot.
Add beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven broiler.
Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each with a slice of toasted baguette and a generous amount of Gruyère.
Freezing classic French Onion Soup can be done, but it’s important to follow a few steps to preserve its flavors and texture effectively:
- Cooling Down: Allow the soup to cool completely at room temperature before freezing. This prevents condensation and ice crystals from forming inside the container.
- Choosing Containers: Use airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags designed for freezing soups. Leave some space at the top of the container or bag to allow for expansion as the soup freezes.
- Labeling and Dating: Always label your containers with the date of freezing and the contents. This helps you keep track of how long the soup has been frozen.
- Freezing: Place the cooled soup in the freezer. For best results, lay freezer bags flat to maximize space and ensure even freezing.
- Thawing and Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or gently reheat it over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly. Avoid rapid thawing or reheating as it can affect the texture and taste of the soup.
While freezing can alter the texture of some ingredients like the onions, French Onion Soup generally freezes well due to its robust flavors. With proper storage and handling, you can enjoy the flavors of this classic dish even after freezing.