Slow Cooker French Onion Soup
Ingredients
- 6large yellow onions (thinly sliced: The star of the dish, yellow onions add sweetness and depth once caramelized.)
- 4 tbspunsalted butter: This is essential for sautéing the onions and adds a rich flavor.
- 2 tbspolive oil: Incorporating olive oil helps prevent the butter from burning (providing a perfect base for the onions.)
- 1 tbspsugar: Sugar helps in the caramelization process (enhancing the natural sweetness of the onions.)
- 1 tbspall-purpose flour: This will help thicken the soup slightly (lending it a wonderful texture.)
- 8 cupsbeef broth: A key ingredient that brings savory richness to the soup. For a lighter version (you can use chicken broth.)
- ½ cupdry white wine: Adds acidity and depth of flavor; feel free to omit it if you prefer an alcohol-free dish.
- 3sprigs fresh thyme: Imparts a subtle earthiness that complements the onions beautifully.
- 2bay leaves: Infuses the soup with additional flavor during cooking.
- —Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing and balancing flavors throughout the dish.
- 1baguette (sliced: A crusty baguette is perfect for topping the soup and soaking up the flavors.)
- 2 cupsshredded Gruyère cheese: A rich (nutty cheese that creates that iconic gooey topping.)
Instructions
- 1
Melt the butter and olive oil: In a skillet over medium heat, combine 4 tbsp of unsalted butter and 2 tbsp of olive oil until melted and foamy.
- 2
Cook the onions: Add 6 thinly sliced large yellow onions. Sauté for about 10-15 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
- 3
Caramelize the onions: Stir in 1 tbsp of sugar and continue to sauté for an additional 10-15 minutes, cooking until the onions turn a deep, golden brown.
- 4
Add flour: Sprinkle 1 tbsp of all-purpose flour over the onions and cook for 2 more minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- 5
Transfer to the slow cooker: Carefully pour the caramelized onions into your slow cooker.
- 6
Add broth and seasonings: Pour in 8 cups of beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter touch), along with ½ cup of dry white wine, 3 sprigs of fresh thyme, 2 bay leaves, and salt and pepper to taste.
- 7
Slow cook: Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- 8
Broil the soup: Once the cooking time is complete, preheat your broiler. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls.
- 9
Top with baguette and cheese: Place a slice of 1 baguette on top of each bowl of soup and generously sprinkle with 2 cups of shredded Gruyère cheese.
- 10
Broil to finish: Broil the bowls until the cheese is bubbly and golden, about 2-3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning!
- 11
Serve hot: Garnish your soup with fresh thyme and serve hot, enjoying the delightful flavors.