Rich & Decadent Onion Gratin Soup Recipe
How to Make Authentic French Onion Gratin Soup at Home
Savor the comforting embrace of this classic French Onion Gratin Soup! Each spoonful is a delightful harmony of sweet, caramelized onions simmered in a rich broth, topped with a toasted bread crouton and a generous blanket of gooey, melted cheese. It’s a perfect dish to warm your soul on a chilly evening or to impress your guests with its elegant flavors.
Main Ingredients- 1/2 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 75g shredded pizza cheese (or Gruyère/mozzarella blend)
- 1 slice of bread (crusts removed, cut into cubes or used whole)
- 2 cups (approx. 400ml) water or beef/chicken broth for richer flavor
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and begin to sauté. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and then start to turn golden brown. Continue to cook, stirring more frequently as they deepen in color, for about 15-20 minutes, until they are deeply caramelized and sweet. This slow caramelization is key to the soup’s rich flavor.
Step 2
Once the onions are beautifully caramelized, deglaze the pot by adding a splash of water (about 1/4 cup) and scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds immense flavor. Pour in the remaining 2 cups of water (or broth). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface during simmering for a cleaner broth.
Step 3
Season the soup with a pinch of black pepper. Taste the broth and add salt gradually until it reaches your desired flavor. Remember that the cheese will also add saltiness, so it’s best to season lightly at this stage.
Step 4
Ladle the hot onion soup into oven-safe bowls or individual ramekins. Place the prepared slice of bread on top of the soup, allowing it to soak up some of the broth. You can also cut the bread into smaller pieces and arrange them on top.
Step 5
Generously sprinkle the shredded pizza cheese over the bread and the soup. Place the bowls under a preheated broiler (around 200°C or 400°F) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Alternatively, you can microwave the bowls (covered with plastic wrap) for about 2 minutes, or until the cheese is thoroughly melted and gooey.
Step 6
Finally, garnish with a pinch of dried parsley flakes for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately while the cheese is hot and stretchy for the best experience.
