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French Onion Soup

Paris

★ 4.7 Origin: 1700s 5.5M servings/year

Description

French Onion Soup is a classic comfort food that showcases the transformative power of slow cooking. This hearty soup features caramelized onions in a rich beef broth, topped with toasted bread and melted cheese. The preparation process is a labor of love, requiring patience and attention to detail to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. The key to a perfect French Onion Soup lies in the caramelization of the onions, which can take up to an hour of slow, careful cooking. The onions are sliced thinly and cooked over low heat until they become deeply golden and sweet. The soup base is made with a rich beef broth, often enhanced with wine and herbs. When served, the soup is topped with toasted bread and a generous amount of melted Gruyère cheese. The combination of the sweet, caramelized onions, rich broth, crispy bread, and melted cheese creates a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.

History

French Onion Soup has its roots in ancient Rome, where onions were used as a base for soups. The modern version was developed in France during the 1700s and became popular in Parisian restaurants in the 1800s. Today, it's celebrated as one of France's most beloved comfort foods.

Cooking Tips

  • The onions should be deeply caramelized
  • The broth should be rich and flavorful
  • The bread should be toasted and crispy
  • The cheese should be melted and golden
  • Best enjoyed on a cold day

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