Before we dive deep into the preparation of French onion soup minus the wine, let’s talk pairings. This dish deserves some good company. A crisp salad can balance its richness, so consider a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
If you want to add a main, grilled cheese sandwiches are always a hit. They give that nostalgic feel and melt seamlessly with the soup. Remember, an ice-cold iced tea or sparkling water with a lemon twist can cleanse your palate beautifully between bites. Let’s jump right in!
French onion soup is a traditional dish brimming with caramelized onions, tender bread, and a glorious cheese topping. When making it without wine, we enhance the flavors through various ingredients, primarily the broth.
This soup captures the essence of comfort food. It’s warm, gooey, and filling.
The beauty of omitting wine lies in the ability to appreciate the sweet, deep flavor of the onions even more. You get this delightful balance between the richness of the broth and the sweetness from the onions.
Without wine, you’re not losing out on flavor; instead, you’re making it customizable for those who prefer it without alcohol.
Imagine lifting a spoonful of warm broth, and feeling the pull of melted cheese as you bring it to your lips. The first taste is a gentle sweetness from the onions, perfectly balanced with the savory notes from the broth.
You get a harmonious blend of textures; the bread gives a satisfying crunch while the cheese adds creaminess. There’s nothing harsh or overpowering. Just pure comfort in a bowl. If your mouth isn’t watering yet, it will be soon!
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious dish:
For serving:
Start by heating the butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the butter melts, add the sliced onions. Stir occasionally. This will take around 20 minutes. You want them to be soft and golden.
When the onions are nicely caramelized, toss in the minced garlic and stir for about a minute. You’ll smell the garlic fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
Sprinkle the flour over the onions. Stir it all together, cooking for about 2 minutes. This will help thicken your soup later.
Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring. It helps to scrape up any bits from the bottom of the pot. Next, add salt, pepper, brown sugar, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce.
Bring the mix to a boil, then reduce to low heat. Let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.
While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to broil. Place slices of the baguette on a baking sheet and toast until golden brown.
Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Add a slice or two of the toasted baguette on top, and sprinkle with cheese.
Put the bowls under the broiler until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This might take just a few minutes, so watch carefully!
Storing is simple! Allow the soup to cool down completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for about 3 to 4 days.
If you want to freeze it, do so before adding the cheese and bread. In the freezer, it can last for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, reheat on the stove, and then add freshly toasted bread and cheese.
Looking for alternatives? Here are five suggestions:
Cooking French onion soup without wine doesn’t just keep things family-friendly; it doesn’t compromise on flavor either.
With the right techniques and substitutions, you can enjoy a bowl of this delightful dish at any time. Whether it's a chilly evening or a sunny afternoon, this soup is here to bring warmth and joy.
It's not just about the ingredients; it's about the experience. So, gather your loved ones, share a bowl, and enjoy the magic of comfort food right in your kitchen.
You'll find that this classic, hearty dish can be both enchanting and approachable—no wine required!
If you've ever inhaled the savory aroma wafting from a bowl of French onion soup, you know the comfort it brings. But what if you want to savor this classic dish without a splash of wine?
You’re in the right place. Here, we’ll explore a version that relies on rich beef broth, sweet onions, and melty cheese, while skipping the wine without losing any of that nostalgic charm.
I’m excited to share not only the recipe but also some insights and tips to help you master this delightful soup in your own kitchen.
Servings 4
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Maria George is a cookbook author and registered dietitian, passionate about merging gourmet cuisine with nutrition through her blog Gourmet And Food. Based in Illinois, she draws on her rich culinary background to create elegant, approachable recipes that celebrate quality ingredients and creativity in the kitchen. Maria’s goal is to inspire food lovers of all levels to explore gourmet cooking and enjoy the art of dining.