To begin, gather the following fresh and flavorful ingredients:
- 4 large yellow onions
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 6 cups of beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup of dry white wine (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparing the Onions
Start by peeling the onions and slicing them thinly. For a rustic look, you can also dice them into small pieces.
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until the butter melts.
Add the sliced onions to the pot and sauté them for about 20-25 minutes until they become caramelized and turn golden brown. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Adding Flavors
Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and continue sautéing for another 2 minutes. The aroma will be irresistible!
Pour in the dry white wine if you opt for a richer taste. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate.
Now, add the bay leaf, fresh thyme, and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. These herbs will infuse the soup with delightful fragrances.
Simmering the Soup
Pour the beef or vegetable broth into the pot, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil.
Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the soup simmer for approximately 30 minutes. This will give enough time for all the flavors to meld together.
Final Touches
After simmering, remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs from the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
For an extra creamy texture, you can blend a portion of the soup using a blender or immersion blender. This step is optional but will enhance the overall mouthfeel.
Serving
Ladle the delicious onion soup into individual bowls. It pairs wonderfully with a sprinkle of grated Gruyere cheese on top and some toasted baguette slices on the side. Your guests will be amazed by the rich taste and comforting aroma of this delightful soup!
There you have it! A delectable and straightforward onion soup that will surely impress anyone who takes a spoonful. This recipe allows the natural sweetness of the onions to shine while incorporating a harmonious blend of herbs and flavors. Whether you're serving it as a comforting meal for yourself or as an appetizer for guests, this soup is a winner.
