Onion soup

Onion soup is a classic dish with a long history that has won the hearts of many due to its comforting taste and simplicity in preparation. This onion soup recipe is perfect for a light dinner or as a delicious snack on cooler days. I invite you to discover the steps to create a delicious, flavorful, and textured soup that will warm your soul.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 medium onion (preferably yellow onion for a sweeter taste)
- 1/2 tablespoon of butter (for a creamy note)
- 1 tablespoon of flour (to thicken the soup)
- 100 ml water (or more, depending on preference)
- Salt, to taste
- Olive oil (or another oil of choice, for sautéing)
- Croutons (you can use either homemade or store-bought)
- Cheese cubes (for an extra flavor boost)

Preparing the onion soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the onion. Once you’ve removed the skin, slice the onion thinly. This will help release the flavors and allow for even cooking. Make sure to use a sharp knife to make this step easier and safer.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a medium pot, add a few tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the onion over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. When the onion becomes translucent and starts to soften, add the butter. The butter will give the soup a rich texture and deeper flavor. Continue to cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly.

3. Adding the flour: Once the onion is well softened, add the flour. This will help thicken the soup. Mix well to combine the flour with the onion, allowing the mixture to cook for 1-2 minutes. This step is essential, as the flour needs to be well cooked to avoid a raw flour taste in the soup.

4. Adding the water: Start adding water gradually, a little at a time, stirring constantly. This will prevent lumps from forming. After you’ve added all the water, let the soup simmer on low heat for about 1 hour. Make sure to stir occasionally and add more water if necessary to achieve the desired consistency. You can adjust the amount of water according to your preferences – if you like a thinner soup, add more water.

5. Seasoning: About 10 minutes before finishing cooking, add salt to taste. It’s important to adjust the salt at the end, as the onion will intensify its flavor during cooking.

6. Serving: Once the soup is ready, remove it from the heat. In serving bowls, place a few cheese cubes and croutons. When the soup is hot, pour it over the cheese and croutons. The cheese will melt slightly, adding a delicious touch.

Useful tips and variations:
- You can experiment with different types of onions. Red onion can add a slightly sweet note, while white onion will add a spicier flavor.
- If you want a more flavorful soup, you can add spices like black pepper or even a pinch of sweet or smoked paprika.
- Croutons can be made at home from stale bread, cut into cubes, and toasted in the oven with a little olive oil and spices. This is an excellent way to avoid food waste.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use green onions instead of regular onions? Yes, green onions can add a fresh flavor, but they are less sweet compared to yellow onions.
- How can I make the soup spicier? Add a pinch of chili powder or a few slices of fresh chili during the sautéing of the onion.
- What drinks pair well with this soup? A dry white wine or a light beer are excellent to complement the flavors of the soup.
- Is this soup vegetarian? Yes, the recipe is vegetarian, but make sure to use cheese without animal rennet.

Nutritional benefits of onion soup:
This soup is rich in antioxidants due to the onions, which contain flavonoids that can help reduce inflammation. Additionally, onions are a good source of vitamin C and fiber, making it a healthy choice.

Onion soup is more than just a simple recipe – it is a culinary experience that combines the simple flavors of ordinary ingredients with the comfort that a warm bowl of soup provides. Whether you serve it at dinner or use it as an appetizer, this recipe will surely become one of your favorites. Enjoy!