Julia Child’s French Onion Soup Recipe – Gourmet And Food

When it comes to French Onion Soup, a crusty French baguette is a must. Slather on a little butter, and you’re golden. A side salad with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances everything beautifully. 

For beverages, a nice glass of crisp Chardonnay complements the soup’s flavors wonderfully. If you're feeling adventurous, a hearty Merlot works surprisingly well, too.

Why This Recipe Is Great for You

I love Julia Child’s French Onion Soup for several reasons. First, it’s comforting. There’s nothing like a bowl of warm soup on a cool evening, right? 

Second, the ingredients are simple yet elevate this dish into something memorable. And third, it’s versatile—this soup can shine as a main course or a delightful starter. Plus, it satisfies those cravings without complicating your night.

Throughout my culinary journey, I’ve turned to this recipe time and time again. There’s a charm in recreating Julia Child’s classic dishes. My kitchen often feels like a bustling French bistro when I make this soup.

Ingredients: What You'll Need

Here’s a run-down of what you need. Use these high-quality ingredients, and don’t skimp on good broth or cheese. Great flavor comes from the best ingredients.

• 8 slices hearty French baguette
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 small raw yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 6 cups rich beef broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine or dry white vermouth
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 to 3 tablespoons cognac or brandy
• 12 ounces Gruyère cheese, freshly grated
• 4 ounces aged Parmesan, finely grated
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

How to Make Julia Child’s French Onion Soup

Let’s get into the kitchen! This recipe involves a bit of patience but trust me, it’s worth it.

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

First, slice those onions thinly. We want them to caramelize and become sweet and soft. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil and butter over medium heat. Add the onions, along with the brown sugar and salt. 

Stir occasionally, letting them soften. This process takes about 30-40 minutes. Yes, it's a commitment, but as those onions caramelize, they will develop a heavenly sweetness.

Step 2: Flour and Broth

Once the onions are a beautiful golden hue, sprinkle the flour over them. Stir to coat the onions evenly. Cook for a couple of minutes to remove any raw flour taste. 

Then, slowly pour in the beef broth and white wine while continuously stirring. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to integrate those deep flavors.

Step 3: The Cognac Twist

Now’s the fun part! Add the cognac or brandy; it provides warmth and richness to the soup. Season with black pepper to taste. You can add a touch more salt if necessary, depending on your broth. If you like, toss in the thyme leaves for an herby kick.

Step 4: Prepare the Bread and Cheese

While the soup simmers, toast those baguette slices. A quick brush of olive oil on each side will give them a perfect crunch. Once golden, take them out and set them aside. Next, it’s time for the cheese. Combine the Gruyère and Parmesan in a bowl, mixing well.

Step 5: Assemble the Soup

Preheat your oven’s broiler. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, leaving some room for the bread and cheese. Place one or two toasted baguette slices on top of the soup. Don’t be shy—cover it generously with the cheese mixture. 

For that gooey, golden goodness, place the bowls under the broiler. Keep a close eye (you know how sneaky broilers can be) until the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the bowls from the oven. Drizzle a touch of extra virgin olive oil on top for a fragrant finish. Enjoy the warmth, depth, and transformative flavors of this classic dish.

Recipe Notes

1. Onions: Use yellow onions for the best caramelization. They sweeten and soften beautifully over time.
2. Broth: Opt for a high-quality beef broth. Homemade is wonderful but store-bought can work just fine too.
3. Wine: White wine is a must for acidity. Choose one that you enjoy drinking.
4. Cheese: Go for freshly grated cheese whenever possible—it melts more smoothly and has better flavor.
5. Cognac/Brandy: Feel free to skip it if you prefer a family-friendly version or substitute with apple cider.
6. Soup Consistency: If you like a thicker soup, feel free to add a little more flour or reduce the liquid slightly.

Recipe Variations

If you're feeling adventurous, here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Vegetarian Variation: Replace beef broth with vegetable stock and ensure the cheese is vegetarian-friendly.
• Mushroom Add-In: For earthy depth, toss in some sautéed mushrooms when caramelizing the onions.
• Herb Variations: Besides thyme, rosemary or even a dash of sage can add unique flavors.
• Spice It Up: Consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a bit of heat.
• Cheese Twist: Mix in other cheeses such as Fontina or Havarti for a different flavor profile.
• Baked Surprise: Add some garlicky spinach or leeks under the cheese for a surprise layer of flavor.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve got the recipe for Julia Child’s French Onion Soup in your back pocket, you’re ready to impress anyone who sits at your table. This dish is more than just comfort food; it’s a celebration. Each bowl tells a story of tradition, patience, and love in cooking.

Whether you’re sharing it at small gatherings or cozy nights with family, it brings people together. 

So grab those onions, fire up the stove, and dive into the delightful nostalgia of this timeless classic. And most importantly, enjoy every spoonful! Your taste buds will thank you.

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