Onion Soup

Onion soup is a dish that has its roots in French folk tradition. Born as a simple and nutritious food , soupe à l'oignon has become a symbol of rustic French cuisine , loved for its rich and enveloping flavor. Legend has it that this soup became popular among merchants who frequented the Halles market in Paris in the 18th century, because it was considered a dish capable of warming and restoring energy after a long day of work. Another curious story is linked to King Louis XV : it is said that, finding himself one night in a hunting lodge with nothing to eat, he prepared a simple soup using only onions, butter and champagne, which were the only ingredients available. Over time, onion soup has evolved, becoming a refined dish thanks to the addition of ingredients such as broth and grated cheese, which have enhanced its flavor and consistency.

Ingredients for 4 people

How to make onion soup

1. Peel the onions and slice them finely. In a large pot, heat the butter together with the extra virgin olive oil. Add the sliced onions and cook them over medium-low heat for about 20-25 minutes, stirring often until they become soft and slightly caramelized.
2. Add a teaspoon of sugar to the onions to help caramelize and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, until they turn a deep golden color.
3. Sprinkle the onions with flour, stirring well to avoid lumps. Pour in the white wine and let it evaporate for a few minutes, until the alcohol has evaporated.
4. Pour the hot broth into the pan, season with salt and pepper, add ground nutmeg, the bay leaf and the sprig of thyme for greater depth of flavour, and leave to simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Meanwhile, toast the bread slices in the oven until crispy. If you like, you can rub the slices with a clove of garlic to add a touch of flavor.
6. Pour the onion soup into heatproof ramekins or bowls. Place two slices of toasted bread on each portion and sprinkle generously with grated cheese.
7. Place the cocottes under the grill in the oven for a few minutes, until the grated cheese melts and forms a golden, crunchy crust.

Onion soup is a versatile dish that is perfect for winter evenings when you want something warm and comforting . For a more rustic version, you can use a mix of golden, red and white onions, which will add complexity to the flavor. If you prefer a creamier soup , you can blend part of the mixture before adding the bread and cheese.