Imagine a chilly evening where the warmth of your home embraces you. The comforting aroma of caramelized onions wafts through the air as they slowly turn a deep, golden brown, melding into a rich, flavorful soup. This Caramelized Onion Soup is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create cherished family moments around the table, a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients transformed by love and patience.
Perfect for cozy family dinners, this soup is both a creative culinary project and a soulful dish that brings everyone together. Whether it’s a seasonal gathering or a quiet night in, Caramelized Onion Soup is a timeless classic that evokes the essence of warmth and togetherness.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Skill Level: Beginner
Ingredients
- 8 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 6 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 1 loaf crusty bread, sliced
- Crispy onion straws (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Stir to combine.
- Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom.
- Add the broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Season with black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- If using, stir in the heavy cream for a richer texture.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, top with crispy onion straws, and serve with slices of crusty bread.
Helpful Tips
- Make Ahead: The flavors of the soup improve with time, so consider making it a day in advance and reheating gently.
- Ingredient Variations: Swap out beef broth for vegetable broth to make the soup vegetarian-friendly. Sherry or balsamic vinegar can replace white wine for a different depth of flavor.
- Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
Pairings
This Caramelized Onion Soup pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and a glass of crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a charcuterie board featuring various cheeses, cured meats, and fresh fruit.
We hope you enjoy making and sharing this Caramelized Onion Soup as much as we do. Don’t forget to tag your creations with #ZynahzRecipes or mention Zynahz on Instagram. We would love to hear your feedback on our website. For more delicious recipes and inspiration, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on our social media channels.
