Onion soup

Onion Soup – a comforting delicacy

Onion soup is much more than just a simple recipe; it is a warm hug served in a bowl. This delicious soup, with a rich and deep flavor, has been savored by generations. Its sweet taste, achieved through caramelizing the onions, is perfectly balanced by melted cheese and crunchy croutons. Let's discover together how to prepare this wonderful soup that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 5

Necessary ingredients:

- Bone broth – 2 liters or alternatively, 2 liters of water and 4 MAGGI beef bouillon cubes
- Onion – 500 g (about 4-5 large onions)
- White bread – 150 g (preferably older bread for crunchier croutons)
- Cheese – 150 g (you can choose smoked cheese for a more intense flavor)
- Oil – 100 ml (olive oil or sunflower oil)
- Salt and pepper – to taste

Preparing the onion soup:

1. Cleaning and slicing the onions: Start by peeling the onions. Slice them thinly, trying to make them as uniform as possible. This will help the onions cook evenly and provide a pleasant texture to the soup.

2. Caramelizing the onions: In a large skillet, add 50 ml of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onion slices and a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The onions will begin to soften and turn slightly golden. This process can take between 20 and 30 minutes, but don't rush! Slow caramelization is key to revealing the natural sweetness of the onions.

3. Preparing the soup: Once the onions are caramelized, add the bone broth (or water with the bouillon cubes). Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

4. Preparing the croutons: While the soup is simmering, prepare the croutons. Slice the bread thinly and drizzle with the remaining oil. Place the slices on a baking tray and put them in the preheated oven at 180°C for about 10-15 minutes, until they are golden and crunchy. You can also add seasonings, such as garlic powder or herbs, for extra flavor.

5. Finishing the soup: After the soup has simmered, season with salt and pepper to taste. Consider adding fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley, for an extra touch of freshness.

6. Serving: In bowls, add the hot soup, then sprinkle the grated cheese on top. Place a few croutons on each serving, and if desired, drizzle with a little olive oil for added flavor.

Practical tips:

- Onion: Choose sweet onions that caramelize better. Yellow or white onions are the most suitable for this recipe.
- Bone broth: If you have time, make your own bone broth at home using leftover meat and vegetables. The taste will be incomparable!
- Vegetarian option: You can replace the bone broth with vegetable stock for a vegetarian version. Make sure to choose a vegetable broth with a deep flavor.
- Variations: You can add spices like cumin or nutmeg to customize the soup even further.

Nutritional benefits:

This soup is rich in nutrients thanks to the onions, which contain antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the cheese provides a source of protein and calcium, essential for bone health.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I store the soup in the fridge?
Yes, the soup can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container.

2. Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, the soup freezes very well. I recommend portioning it into smaller containers for easy defrosting.

3. What other ingredients can I add?
You can add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrients and flavor.

Serving suggestions:

This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a dry white wine. You can also accompany it with a slice of toasted bread spread with butter or a cheese tartine.

In conclusion, onion soup is a simple yet flavorful recipe that can be customized in many ways. Its comforting taste and pleasant texture make it an ideal dish for cool evenings or moments when you want to treat yourself. Don't hesitate to experiment and add a personal touch to this classic soup recipe. Enjoy cooking!