Ingredients:
– 4 large onions, sliced thin
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 baguette, sliced thin
– 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
Instructions:
1. Begin by prepping the onions. Cut off both ends, remove the skin, and slice them thin. It is vital to have evenly sliced onions to ensure even cooking.
2. Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the onions, and stir well to coat them in the butter. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the onions cook for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure they do not stick to the pot.
3. Once the onions have caramelized to a dark brown color, add the flour and stir for 2-3 minutes. This will help thicken the soup.
4. Pour in the dry white wine, stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes until the alcohol evaporates.
5. Add the beef broth to the pot, along with the black pepper, thyme leaves, and bay leaf. Stir well, cover the pot, and let it simmer on low heat for 30 minutes.
6. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lay the baguette slices on a baking sheet, and toast for 7-10 minutes until they are slightly crispy.
7. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, filling them about three-quarters of the way full. Top each bowl with 1-2 toasted baguette slices, and sprinkle a generous amount of grated Gruyère cheese over them.
8. Place the bowls in the oven at 375°F, and bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Take the bowls out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes, and serve hot!
Conclusion:
French onion soup is a delicious and comforting dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the year. By following this easy recipe, you can create a flavorful and hearty soup that will be loved by your family and friends. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can make this classic dish that is sure to impress.