French Onion Beef Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Dish Recipe

Name: French Onion Beef Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 180 min
Ingredients: 6 tablespoons salted butter; 4 medium yellow onions (thinly sliced); 0.5 cup dry white wine ((No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.)); 1 pinch black pepper (to taste); 2 medium shallots (sliced); 4 cloves garlic (chopped); 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage; 1 pinch chili flakes (to taste); 6 cups low sodium chicken broth; 0.5 cup tamari or soy sauce ((low sodium is best)); 4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs; 2 leaves bay leaves; 1 star anise (optional); 2 cups baby carrots; 6 slices French bread; 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese

Introduction to French Onion Beef Soup

French Onion Beef Soup is a delightful and hearty dish that warms the soul, especially on a chilly day. This comforting soup combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions with tender beef short ribs, creating a symphony of taste that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re looking to impress your family or simply enjoy a cozy night in, this recipe is your go-to for a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug.

A Personal Story Behind My French Onion Beef Soup Journey

I remember the first time I tried French Onion Beef Soup; it was during a family gathering at my grandmother’s house. She always had a knack for making everyone feel welcome with her delicious recipes. This soup was a staple, and the aroma of caramelized onions filled the air, drawing everyone into the kitchen. It became a cherished memory and a recipe I knew I had to recreate. Now, I’m excited to share this comforting dish with you, hoping it brings the same warmth and joy to your home.

What Makes This French Onion Beef Soup Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is its depth of flavor. The combination of slowly caramelized onions, aromatic herbs, and tender beef creates a rich broth that is both savory and satisfying. The addition of Gruyère cheese melted atop toasted French bread adds an indulgent touch, making each bowl a comforting experience. Plus, with simple instructions and easy-to-find ingredients, you can create a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss.

The Full French Onion Beef Soup Recipe

Ingredients

6 tablespoons salted butter
4 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc (No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.)
Black pepper, to taste
2 shallots, sliced
4 cloves garlic, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
Chili flakes, to taste
6-8 cups low sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup tamari or soy sauce (low sodium is best)
4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs
2 bay leaves
1 star anise (optional)
2 cups baby carrots
6 slices French bread
2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). This will ensure that your soup cooks evenly.
Sauté the Onions: In a large oven-safe Dutch Oven over high heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced onions and cook for about 5 minutes until they are softened. This step is crucial as it forms the base flavor of your soup.
Add Wine: Pour in the wine, season with black pepper, and let it cook for an additional 5-8 minutes until the wine evaporates and the onions turn lightly golden. This enhances the depth of flavor.
Add Aromatics: Add the shallots, garlic, thyme, sage, and chili flakes to the pot. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
Combine Ingredients: Place the short ribs in the pot and pour in 6 cups of broth. Add tamari, bay leaves, and star anise if using. Stir gently to mix everything.
Oven Cooking: Cover the pot and roast in the oven for 2 1/2 to 3 hours until the short ribs are tender. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Add the baby carrots during the last 1-2 hours of cooking.
Prepare the Meat: Once done, remove the bay leaves and star anise. Discard the bones and excess fat. Lightly shred the meat and season with salt if needed. Keep warm on low heat on the stove.
Toast the Bread: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the slices of French bread on a baking sheet and toast them for about 10 minutes until they are very dry.
Add Cheese: Switch the oven to broil. Top the toasted bread with shredded Gruyère cheese and broil until bubbly, about 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning!
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the cheesy toast. Sprinkle with black pepper and fresh thyme for an added burst of flavor. Enjoy your comforting bowl of French Onion Beef Soup!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for French Onion Beef Soup

This soup is perfect for serving with a simple side salad or a light green vegetable for a complete meal. You can also customize your soup by adding other vegetables like potatoes or mushrooms for extra nutrition. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the beef with hearty mushrooms and vegetable broth, omitting the meat entirely. This dish is versatile and can cater to various dietary preferences while still delivering on flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About French Onion Beef Soup

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! For a quicker version, you can use a crockpot following the same steps but cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 5-6 hours. This allows for the flavors to develop beautifully while you go about your day.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What can I substitute for Gruyère cheese?
If you cannot find Gruyère cheese, Swiss cheese or mozzarella can work as alternatives, although they may have slightly different flavors and textures. Adjust according to your taste preference.