Have you ever experienced the deep, rich flavor of a well-made French onion soup? Julia Child’s French Onion Soup is a culinary classic that transports you straight to a cozy bistro in Paris. This recipe captures the essence of traditional French cooking, showcasing the beautiful interplay of sweet caramelized onions and savory broth, topped with gooey melted cheese.
This soup is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients elevated to greatness. With Julia Child’s guidance, you’ll learn how to coax out the sweetness from the onions and create a broth that’s both hearty and comforting. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a starter for a special dinner, this soup is sure to impress.
Authentic French Onion Soup Inspired by Julia Child
This classic French onion soup features layers of flavor from slowly caramelized onions, a rich broth, and a decadent topping of melted cheese. It’s comforting and satisfying, ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 8 cups beef stock (or a combination of beef and chicken stock)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 French baguette, sliced
- 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are a deep golden brown.
- Add Stock and Season: Pour in the beef stock and white wine (if using). Add the bay leaf and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Season with black pepper.
- Prepare Bread: While the soup is simmering, preheat the broiler. Toast the baguette slices until golden brown on both sides.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls, place a slice of toasted baguette on top of each bowl, and sprinkle with grated Gruyère cheese. Broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Enjoy: Let the soup cool slightly before serving, ensuring a warm and melty cheese topping awaits.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Servings: 6 bowls
- Calories: 300kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g