Recipe Information

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

• For the Soup:
  • 850g yellow onions + 4 small sweet onions for garnish
  • 1 red onion
  • 100g butter
  • 1 liter chicken stock
  • 4 tablespoons flour
  • 2 tablespoons homemade breadcrumbs
  • 150g Gruyère AOP cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions

1. Peel and finely chop the yellow onions and red onion.
2. In a pot, melt the butter over low heat. Add the onions and gently sauté for 20-30 minutes, stirring regularly until they become beautifully caramelized.
3. Add the flour and stir well. Gradually pour in the chicken stock while continuously stirring to prevent lumps. The mixture will thicken as it heats up.
4. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste.
5. Blend the soup until it reaches a silky smooth consistency.
6. Preheat the oven to the grill setting.
7. On a baking sheet, grate the Gruyère AOP cheese and form small mounds.
8. Bake for a few minutes until the cheese forms golden discs. Stay close to the oven to prevent burning.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool.
10. Peel the remaining onions (both yellow and red), cut them into quarters, and separate into petals.
11. Use a kitchen torch to lightly char the tips of the sweet onions.
12. In deep soup bowls, arrange the charred onion petals at the bottom.
13. Sprinkle the Gruyère AOP crisps and breadcrumbs on top.
14. Garnish with fresh herbs or micro greens.
15. Serve the hot soup over the top of everything just before serving.

Notes

This soup can be made in advance and refrigerated for a day. Simply reheat and add the cheese before serving.

Recipe Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of sherry or white wine to the onions when sautéing for a luxurious touch.

Nutritional Information

Approximate nutritional values per serving: 350 calories, 25g fat, 15g carbs, and 10g protein.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use a different cheese?

  Yes, while Gruyère AOP adds authentic flavor, other cheeses like Emmental or Swiss cheese can be used as a substitute.

• How can I make this soup vegetarian?

  Simply replace chicken stock with vegetable stock, and ensure the cheese is vegetarian-friendly.

• Can I freeze the soup?

  Yes, you can freeze the soup without the cheese for up to three months. Thaw and add the cheese when ready to serve.

• What bread is best for serving?

  A slice of crusty baguette or sourdough works great for soaking up the delicious soup.

• Can I add other vegetables?

  While traditional French onion soup focuses on onions, adding some mushrooms or carrots can enhance the flavor profile.