Before diving into the delightful recipe for vegetarian French onion soup, let’s explore some fantastic pairing ideas that enhance this rich, savory dish. A fresh garden salad, featuring a crunchy mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed with a light vinaigrette, can refresh your palate between bites.
For a truly comforting experience, a savory grilled cheese sandwich is a magical accompaniment; dipping a gooey sandwich made with hearty bread and your favorite cheeses into a bowl of hot soup is simply irresistible. Crispy garlic bread also makes a wonderful complement; just slather some butter mixed with minced garlic on baguette slices and toast them until golden.
For those who appreciate classic pairings, nothing beats a slice of warm, crusty artisan bread, perfect for sopping up every last drop of the delicious soup. Now, let’s dig into the robust and comforting world of vegetarian French onion soup!
What is Vegetarian French Onion Soup?
This dish is all about the caramelization of onions. By cooking onions slowly over low heat, they transform from sharp, pungent bulbs into sweet, tender morsels.
This soup also incorporates garlic, herbs, and just the right amount of red wine to enhance its flavor profile. The result? A deliciously comforting bowl that nourishes both body and soul.
Why This Recipe Works?
This recipe does not just throw together a few ingredients. It’s the culmination of flavors, techniques, and a bit of loving care. Here’s why this recipe is a winner:
1. Deep, Rich Flavor: The slow caramelization of onions creates a sweetness that counters the saltiness of the dish, balancing each bite. This process is key to the soup’s success.
2. Simple Ingredients: You won’t find any bizarre chemicals or artificial flavors in this recipe. Just wholesome, accessible ingredients that are easy to find in most kitchens.
3. Customizable: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily adjust the recipe. Whether you want to add more herbs, switch up the cheese, or even add some spices for a kick, it’s all possible.
4. Healthier Comfort Food: Packed with nutrients from onions and vegetable broth, this dish is a fantastic way to enjoy comfort food without guilt. It’s low in calories but high in satisfaction!
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Vegetarian French Onion Soup
Gathering quality ingredients is half the battle for a delicious soup. Here’s what you will need:
- 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 3 pounds of yellow onions (approximately 5 large), peeled and sliced into half-moon shapes
- 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons of plant-based butter (substitutable for vegan)
- 1 teaspoon of coconut sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons of sea salt
- ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 8 cups of vegetable broth (homemade or low-sodium for less sodium)
- ½ cup of full-bodied red wine
- 1 tablespoon of vegan Worcestershire sauce
- 2 bay leaves (fresh or dried)
- 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme)
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 4 slices of crusty French bread, cut into thick pieces
- 1 cup of freshly grated Gruyère cheese
How To Make This Soup?
Let’s break this down step by step. Trust me, the process is rewarding and surprisingly simple.
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Heat the olive oil and plant-based butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with sea salt. Stir often for about 30-40 minutes, or until the onions turn an amber color. Patience is essential here; don’t rush this step. You’re aiming for that beautifully caramelized texture and sweet flavor.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Sugar
Once your onions reach that golden hue, toss in the minced garlic and coconut sugar. Stir for a couple more minutes until fragrant. The sugar helps enhance the sweet notes of the soup.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
Pour in the red wine, scraping up any stuck bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds depth and complexity to the soup. Let the wine simmer for a few minutes until it reduces slightly.
Step 4: Add Broth and Spices
Stir in the vegetable broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, thyme, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to gently simmer for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Make the Bread Toppings
While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the slices of French bread on a baking sheet. Toast them for about 10 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway. If you’d like, cheese can be added to the slices for a melty topping.
Step 6: Serve the Soup
Once the soup is done, remove the bay leaves. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, place a slice of toasted bread on top, and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese. You can broil them for an extra touch—just a minute under the broiler until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips for Success
- Be Patient: Caramelizing onions takes time. Don’t rush it, or else the flavor won’t be as rich.
- Quality Matters: Use great vegetable broth and cheese. These ingredients impact the overall taste.
- Wine Selection: Opt for a dry, not overly sweet red wine for the best flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves provide better flavor than dried versions. Use fresh when possible.
- Adjust to Taste: If the soup is too sweet, add a splash more vinegar or some lemon juice to brighten it.
How to Store the Leftovers?
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, they can easily be stored. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Freeze in portions and allow it to thaw overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Recommended Side Dishes for Vegetarian French Onion Soup
Pairing sides can elevate your meal further. Here are some tasty suggestions:
1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad can add a crunchy, tangy contrast to the rich soup. Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and croutons make for a delightful mix.
2. Quinoa Salad: A chilled quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a zesty lemon dressing brings freshness and texture that complements the soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or root veggies can provide beautiful flavors. Their caramelization brings out natural sweetness, just like in the soup.
4. Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Warm, cheesy, and savory, this dip is a fantastic appetizer. Pair it with pita chips, and it sets a fun tone for your meal.
Substitute Options for Ingredients
Sometimes an ingredient isn’t available. Here are some handy substitutes:
1. Onions: If you’re out of yellow onions, you can use sweet onions or even shallots for a different flavor profile.
2. Gruyère Cheese: If Gruyère is hard to find, Swiss cheese or provolone can work as alternatives. Both melt well and offer a similar creamy experience.
3. Red Wine: For those avoiding alcohol, consider using balsamic vinegar and water mixed in a 1:1 ratio for a similar flavor without the wine.
4. Vegetable Broth: Homemade vegetable broth is ideal, but in a pinch, you can use water with added herbs and spices for flavor.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve ventured through the process of creating a sumptuous vegetarian French onion soup, I hope you feel inspired. With each slow-stirred pot, the soup transforms, promising warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. This recipe is a labor of love that reflects the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something marvelous. Whether it’s a chilly day or a gathering of friends, this soup is sure to be a hit.
Experiment with the recipe to make it your own, and remember, cooking is as much about the journey as it is about the final dish. Happy cooking!
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- Knorr French Onion Soup Mix Copycat Recipe
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Vegetarian French Onion Soup Recipe – Gourmet And Food
Description
There's something about a warm bowl of soup that feels like a cozy hug. When I think of comfort food, my mind instantly jumps to French onion soup. However, I'm here to present a vegetarian version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
With sweet caramelized onions, deep umami notes from vegetable broth, and the satisfying crunch of toasted bread smeared with gooey cheese, this soup has won my heart and will undoubtedly win yours too.
French onion soup typically contains beef broth, which leaves many vegetarians out in the cold—literally and figuratively. Fear not! This recipe replaces beef broth with a rich vegetable broth, creating a depth of flavor that is just as fulfilling. Now, brace yourself for an adventure through the ingredients, method, and creativity that culminates in a delicious vegetarian French onion soup.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
-
Heat the olive oil and plant-based butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with sea salt. Stir often for about 30-40 minutes, or until the onions turn an amber color. Patience is essential here; don’t rush this step. You're aiming for that beautifully caramelized texture and sweet flavor.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Sugar
-
Once your onions reach that golden hue, toss in the minced garlic and coconut sugar. Stir for a couple more minutes until fragrant. The sugar helps enhance the sweet notes of the soup.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot
-
Pour in the red wine, scraping up any stuck bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds depth and complexity to the soup. Let the wine simmer for a few minutes until it reduces slightly.
Step 4: Add Broth and Spices
-
Stir in the vegetable broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, thyme, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to gently simmer for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Make the Bread Toppings
-
While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the slices of French bread on a baking sheet. Toast them for about 10 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway. If you’d like, cheese can be added to the slices for a melty topping.
Step 6: Serve the Soup
-
Once the soup is done, remove the bay leaves. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, place a slice of toasted bread on top, and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese. You can broil them for an extra touch—just a minute under the broiler until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 194kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 21.3g33%
- Saturated Fat 17g85%
- Cholesterol 2mg1%
- Sodium 66mg3%
- Total Carbohydrate 2g1%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 1g2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Be Patient: Caramelizing onions takes time. Don’t rush it, or else the flavor won't be as rich.
- Quality Matters: Use great vegetable broth and cheese. These ingredients impact the overall taste.
- Wine Selection: Opt for a dry, not overly sweet red wine for the best flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and bay leaves provide better flavor than dried versions. Use fresh when possible.
- Adjust to Taste: If the soup is too sweet, add a splash more vinegar or some lemon juice to brighten it.
