Soup

Longhorn French Onion Soup Recipe – Gourmet And Food

Name: Longhorn French Onion Soup Recipe – Gourmet And Food
Prep time: 4 h
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 4 h 5 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 6 Walla 6 Walla sweet onions, sliced into 1/4-inch rings; 1 garlic clove, minced; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar; 2 cups water; 2 1/2 cups beef broth; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 6 sprigs fresh thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 baguette, sliced; 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese; 1 tablespoon shredded Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary

Maria George December 6, 2024

Servings: 6 Total Time: 4 hrs 5 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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This isn’t just any onion soup; it boasts rich flavors and warm, comforting vibes. Imagine walking into a cozy restaurant, the aroma of caramelized onions wafting through the air. You’re about to enjoy a bowl of deliciousness.

I remember my first time having French onion soup. A cold winter evening, warm light from the restaurant spilling onto the street. As I took my first spoonful, it felt like a delightful hug in a bowl. Every spoonful blended savory beef broth, sweet caramelized onions, and cheesy goodness from that Gruyère melt. You may feel the same way once you master this recipe.

Let me take you on a journey through this delectable dish, stressing its components, the cooking process, and why it’s absolutely a must-try.

What is Longhorn French Onion Soup?

French onion soup traces its roots back to France but has evolved significantly across kitchens, particularly in American steakhouses. The Longhorn take brings a hearty twist to the traditional recipe, featuring a blend of sweet Walla Walla onions and a savory broth that exemplifies comfort food.

The star here? Those slow-cooked onions, which transform into sweet, rich morsels that infuse the soup with unparalleled flavor. This is complemented by the deep umami taste of beef broth, which cradles the onions just perfectly.

Topped with a crusty baguette and a decadent layer of melted Gruyère cheese, each bowl becomes an experience you simply can’t forget.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

Let’s break it down.

Sweetness: The onions release natural sugars as they caramelize. They bring a mellow sweetness that balances the dish, making every bite wonderful.
Umami: The combination of beef and chicken broths provides that savory characteristic, packing a punch that enhances the entire dish.
Savoriness: With added ingredients like Worcestershire sauce and fresh herbs like thyme, the flavor becomes layered and inviting.
Cheesy indulgence: Gruyère cheese, when melted, produces a creamy, luscious topping, creating that golden crust on top.
Earthy tones: Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme lend earthiness that rounds off the profile beautifully.

Together, these elements create a dish that is comforting and satisfying, one that will have you coming back for seconds and thirds!

Why You’ll Love This?

This Longhorn French onion soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a culinary project that invites you into the kitchen! You’ll relish every moment. The slow-cooking process might take some time, but the results are worth it. When you serve this soup, everyone will lean in for that first spoonful. Warm smiles and slurps of approval will become the soundtrack to your meal.

Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make. You’ll quickly impress family or friends without spending all day in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and some patience, you’ll create a soup that looks and tastes gourmet.

Ingredients

Before you roll up your sleeves, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

6 Walla Walla sweet onions, sliced into 1/4-inch rings
1 garlic clove, minced
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
2 cups water
2 1/2 cups beef broth
4 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
6 sprigs fresh thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 baguette, sliced
2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
1 tablespoon shredded Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for added depth)
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (optional, for an herbal note)

These simple ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors that will captivate your senses.

Longhorn French Onion Soup Copycat Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get right to the good stuff! Below, I’ll guide you through making this luscious soup.

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add your sliced Walla Walla onions. Stir frequently for about 15 minutes. You want them to become soft and begin to caramelize. Those golden brown bits? That’s the flavor magic happening!

Step 2: Add Garlic, Salt, and Sugar

Once the onions turn a lovely brown, add the minced garlic, salt, and brown sugar. Stir it well. The sugar will help deepen the caramelization, enhancing the flavor. Cook until the onions are a deep golden brown, about 10-15 more minutes.

Step 3: Add Broths and Seasonings

Now, it’s time for the liquids. Pour in the beef and chicken broths along with the two cups of water. Toss in your Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and the bay leaf. Give everything a good stir and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Season

Taste your broth. You might want to add salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors further. Simmer for another 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Prepare the Baguette

While waiting, slice your baguette into half-inch thick slices and place them on a baking sheet. Optional: You can drizzle a little olive oil on top for extra crispiness. Toast them in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 5 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 6: Assemble

Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls or crocks. Place a toasted baguette slice on top of each bowl, covering it with a generous amount of the Gruyère cheese. Don’t be shy; this layer of cheese is crucial!

Step 7: Broil

Put the bowls under the broiler for 2-5 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden. It’s like a cheesy crown on your soup!

Step 8: Serve

Remove from the oven and let the bowls cool slightly. Sprinkle some fresh rosemary or thyme on top for a final touch. Ready, set, dig in!

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your soup, consider these expert tips:

Caramelize longer: The longer you cook your onions, the more flavor you’ll develop. Just don’t let them burn!
Broth quality matters: Use high-quality broths for the best taste. Homemade is even better if you have time!
Add a splash of wine: A splash of white wine adds depth; just let it reduce a bit before adding broth.
Experiment with cheese: If Gruyère isn’t available, Swiss or provolone work too!
Garnish for flair: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a little balsamic drizzle can be the cherry on top.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a rough estimate per serving:

Calories: 400
Protein: 18g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 6g

This soup is filling, but the portion sizes are flexible. A perfect starter or main with a side.

How Can You Store This Longhorn French Onion Soup?

You can store this delightful soup in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

If you want to freeze it, do so without the cheese as it may not thaw well. The soup freezes nicely for about 2-3 months.

Reheat gently on the stovetop, and when you’re ready to serve, top with cheese and broil as instructed!

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

Sometimes, life throws curveballs, and you might not have everything in your pantry. Here are some alternatives to consider:

Onions: If Walla Walla onions aren’t available, yellow or sweet onions work nicely.
Broth: Need a vegetarian option? Replace beef broth with vegetable broth. You’ll still enjoy flavor-packed goodness.
Cheese: No Gruyère? Go for a good shredded mozzarella or a stronger cheese like aged cheddar. You’ll still achieve that gooey top layer.

Conclusion

Longhorn French onion soup is a comforting dish that satisfies the deepest cravings. This recipe takes you through not only making an extraordinary soup but also highlights the joy of cooking. Dive into the sweet, savory adventure of caramelized onions and bubbling cheese.

Whether for a family gathering or a cozy dinner for one, this soup brings warmth and happiness. So grab those onions, don your apron, and prepare to create a dish that will leave your heart and stomach full! Enjoy your cooking journey, and don’t forget to share your success with friends and family!

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Longhorn French Onion Soup Recipe – Gourmet And Food

Author: Maria George Cuisine: American Courses: Soup

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 4 hrs Cook Time 5 mins Total Time 4 hrs 5 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 400 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Before we dive into the deliciousness of Longhorn French onion soup, let’s chat about what pairs well with this comforting dish. A crisp side salad can lighten the meal, bringing freshness that complements the rich flavors of the soup.

A Caesar salad, with its tangy dressing and crunchy croutons, is a classic choice. For a heartier addition, consider a simple grilled cheese sandwich, ideally made with a good sharp cheddar.

Need something to sip on? A nice glass of Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the deep flavors of the beef broth, while a light, fizzy sparkling water can refresh your palate. Bye-bye thirst, hello flavor!

Now that we know what to have alongside it, let’s explore what makes Longhorn French onion soup a beloved classic.