Jul 13 2026
RestaurantsParis BistroFrench Onion Soup Recipe

French Onion Soup Recipe

Inspired by Paris Bistro
Time1h 30m
Serves4

Caramelized onions in a beef and red Bordeaux broth, served with French baguette and gruyere cheese.

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Ingredients

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Soup Base

Toppings

Method

Soup Preparation

  1. 1

    Caramelize the Onions

    In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the sliced yellow onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 20-25 minutes until the onions are deep golden brown and caramelized. Reduce heat if necessary to prevent burning.

  2. 2

    Add Garlic

    Once the onions are caramelized, add the whole garlic cloves and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

  3. 3

    Deglaze with Wine

    Pour in the Red Bordeaux wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the wine reduces slightly.

  4. 4

    Add Broth and Seasoning

    Add the beef broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serving Preparation

  1. 5

    Prepare Baguette

    While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the French baguette into 1-inch thick slices and place them on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 5 minutes or until lightly golden.

  2. 6

    Add Cheese

    Remove the soup from heat and discard the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top each bowl with toasted baguette slices, and sprinkle generously with Gruyere cheese.

  3. 7

    Broil Soup

    Place the bowls under the broiler in the oven for about 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

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