French Onion Soup

55 mins
Serves 4
instagram.com

Directions

  1. 1In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. 2Add the onions all at once and a small splash of water.
  3. 3Season the onions with salt and pepper.
  4. 4Bring the onions to a simmer, stirring often.
  5. 5Reduce the heat if the onions begin to cook too fast.
  6. 6Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 15 minutes.
  7. 7Add the flour and cook for 3 minutes.
  8. 8Add the sherry and cook for a few minutes longer.
  9. 9Add the beef stock and bring to a very low simmer; simmer for about 35 minutes.
  10. 10Preheat the broiler to finish the soup.
  11. 11Add the thyme to the soup and simmer for 5 more minutes.
  12. 12Season with salt and pepper as needed.
  13. 13Remove the herbs.
  14. 14Ladle the soup into 4 soup crocks.
  15. 15Cover each crock with 2 slices of cheese and some croutons.
  16. 16Top with the shredded Gruyere.
  17. 17Transfer the crocks to a baking sheet and place under the broiler until the cheese bubbles and browns.

Ingredients

  • 1 stick unsalted butter
  • 6 cups thinly sliced Vidalia or Spanish onions
  • Kosher salt
  • freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 0.25 cup dry sherry
  • 5 cups beef stock
  • 6 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 8 slices Gruyere cheese (or Swiss)
  • 1 cup grated Gruyere cheese
  • 2 cups croutons

Equipment

large potbroilersoup crocksbaking sheet

Tips

  • For a sweeter soup, continue to cook the onions until they caramelize to the richness of your preference.