FAQs
A few sprigs of thyme and a bay leaf elevate the soup even more, but I take it a step further, adding a splash of fish sauce for complexity and depth—don't worry, it won't taste fishy—and a hit of cider vinegar to balance some of that oniony sweetness.
What is special about French onion soup? ›
The modern recipe for French Onion Soup as we know it today began to take shape in the 19th century. The addition of beef broth and the generous layer of melted cheese on top transformed the simple onion soup into the rich and indulgent dish we adore.
What broth is French onion soup made of? ›
What Is French Onion Soup? French onion soup, or soupe à l'oignon gratinée, is a classic French dish made with caramelized onions and beef stock or broth. The soup is topped with bread and cheese, then gratinéed to rich, gooey perfection. It's traditionally served in a ramekin or a ceramic crock with a handle.
What's the difference between French onion soup and onion soup? ›
What is the Difference Between Onion Soup and French Onion Soup? French onion soup is always made with beef stock. Other onion soups can be made with chicken, vegetable, or beef stock. Additionally, French onion soup typically contains wine or sherry, which isn't typical or necessary in other onion soups.
Why does my French onion soup taste bland? ›
To improve the blandness of your French onion soup: add more seasoning, caramelize onions longer than usual, use high-quality beef broth, simmer for extended time and include melted cheese with crouton as toppings for added richness.
What if I add too much garlic to French onion soup? ›
Just cook the soup some more and the garlic will mellow. Although, the benefits of the garlic diminish as well. Add a little more of the sweet aromatics, carrot, parsnips,celery,sweet onion, and of course more stock. Cook it a little longer and the garlic flavor should be more subdued.
How to thicken French onion soup? ›
If you want to thicken your French onion soup, you can add a bit of flour. Combine a couple of tablespoons of flour with a teaspoon of salt and whisk in about a quarter cup of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, until thickened.
Does it matter how you cut onions for French onion soup? ›
For French onion soup, it is best to slice the onions into thin, even slices. This will allow them to cook evenly and caramelize properly. You can achieve this by cutting the onion in half, placing the flat side down, and slicing it widthwise into thin slices.
What is Panera French onion soup made of? ›
Sweet caramelized onions in a savory broth with a sherry wine vinegar gastrique, sea salt, topped with cheese and our black pepper and sea salt croutons.
Do people in France eat French onion soup? ›
The Onion Soup, a traditional and warming dish
It has even become a trendy dish that tourists are eager to try to experience French gastronomy. However, onion soup is in fact not part of French people's daily meals. It was originally meant to be eaten after a family reunion in the middle of the night to cure hangovers…
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheese: To me, there is no better cheese in a French onion soup than Gruyere! However, shredded Swiss or provolone also works very well. Just be sure to find something that is easily shredded or grated, as that's what will give you that amazing gooey, melty cheese we all love.
Why is French onion soup sour? ›
It might be because of the stock or that you used onions that has sour flavor such as white onions. To solve this problem u might have to mixed the onions with other kind of onions. My suggestion is to mix in yellow onions and red onions that have more sugar content.
How do I increase the depth of flavor in soup? ›
Perk up a Bland Soup With Simple Pantry Staples
Add a splash of vinegar (any kind!), or a squeeze of citrus. Chances are, you could use a little more salt. Go ahead—it's ok. Salt perks up flat flavors and helps balance out bitter-tasting ingredients.
What can I add to French onion soup that is too sweet? ›
If the soup is too sweet, add some vinegar. If you would like a little more depth, add a splash of red wine. I like the onion-to-liquid ratio with 6 cups of water. But if you'd prefer a slightly more delicate soup, add an additional 1 cup/240 milliliters water or to taste.
How do you get the most Flavour out of onions? ›
Soak in Vinegar: It only takes about 15 minutes. Soaking raw onions in acid rinses away the harsh flavors and adds pleasant tartness. Soak in Water: Even water washes away those pesky sulfuric flavors. A quick 15-minute soak does the trick.
How do you deepen soup? ›
Adding umami-rich ingredients like tomato paste or a parmesan rind to the soup will add a deep, rich savoriness and body to the soup. (Here's what umami means.)
