Heartwarming French Onion Soup

There’s something magical about French Onion Soup—it doesn’t just warm your body, but your soul too. The deep caramelized onions, savory broth, and gooey cheese create a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. This recipe delivers all the classic flavors with just the right touch of richness, perfect for any cozy evening.

Yield: 6 Servings. 

Ingredients

Soup:

• 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 3 pounds medium yellow onions, halved and thinly sliced
• ¾ teaspoon sea salt
• 1½ tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1½ tablespoons tamari
• 1½ tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose white flour
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• Freshly ground black pepper

Topping:

• Baguette cubes
• Gruyère cheese, aged cheddar, and/or Parmesan cheese
• Fresh thyme
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Caramelize the Onions. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onions, salt, and several grinds of pepper. Toss to combine. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring every few minutes, for about 40 minutes or until the onions become very soft.
2. Golden Perfection. Increase the heat to medium and continue cooking the onions, stirring often, for 15–20 minutes until golden brown. Stir in the balsamic vinegar, tamari, thyme, and garlic. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir well, cooking for 2 minutes to toast the flour.
3. Deglaze and Simmer. Add the white wine, stirring constantly, and cook for 2 minutes or until evaporated. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Let the soup cook for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Prepare the Topping. Preheat your oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange baguette cubes on the baking sheet, topping each slice with a generous amount of cheese. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve. Ladle the soup into bowls or ramekins. Top each serving with a cheesy baguette cubes, a sprinkle of fresh thyme, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, if desired.

Enjoy this bowl of comfort with the "Day 12" Advent Wine. 

< Back to All Advent Recipes