Appetizer & Desert

Martha Stewart French Onion Soup Recipe – Gourmet And Food

Name: Martha Stewart French Onion Soup Recipe – Gourmet And Food
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 12 ounces medium-aged cheese, such as a mix of Gruyere, Fontina, or Swiss; 2 pounds of yellow onions, halved lengthwise and sliced into ¼-inch thick strips; 3 1/2 cups homemade beef broth; 1 small French baguette, sliced diagonally into ¾-inch thick pieces; 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pats; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped; 1 teaspoon of light brown sugar; A pinch of smoked paprika

Maria George February 27, 2025

Servings: 4 Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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French onion soup is a rich and savory dish that pairs wonderfully with a few well-chosen accompaniments to create a well-rounded meal. A slice of crusty French baguette, toasted and rubbed with garlic, enhances the soup’s flavors while providing the perfect texture for dipping.

A light, crisp salad—such as arugula with a lemon vinaigrette—offers a refreshing contrast, with the peppery greens balancing the soup’s deep, caramelized onion richness.

To elevate the experience, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or even a light-bodied red such as Pinot Noir complements the soup’s flavors without overpowering them.

For a satisfying finish, a light dessert like lemon sorbet or a fruit tart provides a bright, tangy contrast, ensuring the meal feels complete without being too heavy. These thoughtful pairings enhance the magic of Martha Stewart’s French onion soup, making it even more enjoyable.

What is Martha Stewart’s French Onion Soup?

Martha Stewart’s French onion soup is a beautifully crafted dish that celebrates the humble onion. This soup features deeply caramelized onions simmered in beef broth. The signature topping is a mix of melted cheese, usually Gruyère or a blend of cheeses, melted to perfection.

The result is a comforting bowl of goodness that warms you from the inside out, perfect for chilly evenings or any time you need a little pick-me-up.

Why This Recipe Works

What makes this particular recipe stand out? Several factors come into play. First, the technique of caramelizing the onions slowly brings out their natural sweetness. It’s a simple step, yet it transforms the flavor profile of the soup. Next, the blend of wines and spices adds depth.

Finally, the quality of ingredients, like homemade beef broth and high-quality cheese, creates a rich, satisfying experience. Together, these elements result in a bowl of deliciousness that feels both homey and gourmet.

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Before you get started, make sure you have these ingredients lined up:

12 ounces medium-aged cheese, such as a mix of Gruyere, Fontina, or Swiss
2 pounds of yellow onions, halved lengthwise and sliced into ¼-inch thick strips
3 1/2 cups homemade beef broth
1 small French baguette, sliced diagonally into ¾-inch thick pieces

1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
½ cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pats
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
1 teaspoon of light brown sugar
A pinch of smoked paprika

Martha Stewart French Onion Soup Copycat Recipe

How to Make Martha Stewart French Onion Soup

This soup comes together in several steps. It might seem intricate, but each step builds on the last, creating a dish that will impress both your taste buds and your guests.

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

Begin by heating your olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, a pinch of salt, and the light brown sugar. Stir everything together and cook slowly, for about 30-40 minutes.

You’ll want to stir occasionally to prevent burning. The goal here is to achieve that beautiful amber color. Patience is key. These onions are what will give the soup its complex flavor.

Step 2: Add Flour and Wine

Once you’ve reached that rich, caramelized goodness, sprinkle the flour over the onions. Stir for a couple of minutes.

This step will help thicken the soup later. Next, pour in the white wine, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce slightly.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth

At this point, add your beef broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and incorporate your balsamic vinegar and thyme. Lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about 20-30 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Prepare the Bread

While the soup simmers, prepare your bread. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your sliced baguette on a baking sheet and toast in the oven until golden brown, about 15 minutes. You want it crispy, as this will float on top of the soup.

Step 5: Assemble and Broil

When your soup is ready, ladle it into oven-safe bowls. Place the toasted baguette slices on top of the soup, and generously sprinkle the grated cheese over. Broil the bowls in the oven until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown, about 2-4 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Your soup is ready to serve! Garnish with a pinch of thyme or some freshly cracked pepper if you like. Invite your friends over and watch their eyes light up when you place this decadent dish in front of them.

Tips for Your French Onion Soup

Creating the perfect French onion soup requires a few tips:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, quality cheese, and homemade broth make a big difference in flavor.
Don’t Rush the Onions: Allowing the onions to caramelize slowly is crucial. Patience equals flavor.

Experiment with Cheese: While Gruyère is traditional, feel free to mix it with Fontina or Swiss for added depth.
Broil with Caution: When broiling, stay by the oven. Cheese can go from bubbly to burnt in seconds.
Garnish Thoughtfully: Adding fresh herbs like thyme right before serving can elevate the presentation.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers (a rare occurrence), store the soup in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. The bread can become soggy, so store it separately. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of broth to bring back the original consistency.

How Would I Recommend Serving Martha Stewart French Onion Soup?

Serving this dish can be just as fun as making it. Here are some ideas:

With a Salad: Pairing this soup with a fresh green salad lightens the meal. The crispness contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.

At a Dinner Party: Present it as a starter. Serve it in individual bowls. Your guests will admire the effort, and it sets a cozy tone.
For a Movie Night: Cozy up with this soup in front of the television. It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting dish while relaxing.
As a Fancy Lunch: Serve it alongside a sandwich for an elevated lunch experience. A classic grilled cheese would be perfect.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if Not Available?

Sometimes, you may not have all the ingredients on hand. Here are some substitutes:

Cheese: If you can’t find Gruyère, use mozzarella for a milder flavor. It melts beautifully too.
Onions: If you’re out of yellow onions, sweet onions like Vidalia work well. They will offer a different but delightful sweetness.

Broth: In place of beef broth, vegetable broth can be used. It will change the flavor profile but will still complement the onions nicely.
Wine: If you prefer to skip the wine, add more beef broth or consider using a splash of balsamic vinegar as a substitute.

Best Martha Stewart French Onion Soup Recipe

Conclusion

Martha Stewart’s French onion soup is a real treat for the senses. The layers of flavors, the silky texture, and the delightful cheese topping come together in a way that delights anyone who takes a spoonful.

Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or for a gathering of friends, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create this classic dish. You won’t just be cooking; you’ll be crafting an experience.

Grab a nice bottle of wine, toast to your cooking skills, and enjoy every bite. Happy cooking!

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Martha Stewart French Onion Soup Recipe – Gourmet And Food

Author: Maria George Cuisine: French Courses: Appetizer & Desert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 1 hr Total Time 1 hr 20 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 588 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

French onion soup is a beloved classic. We all know the feeling of diving into a bowl of this savory delight. The caramelized onions, the rich broth, and oh, the cheesy topping—it’s like a warm hug after a long day. I’ve tried many versions, but one stands out.

Martha Stewart’s French onion soup shines not only in flavor but in technique as well. This recipe marries simplicity and elegance seamlessly, making it an absolute must-try.