Why You’ll Love This Vegetarian French Onion Soup Recipe
You’re going to love this Vegetarian French Onion Soup recipe for its rich, comforting flavors and simplicity.
I find that there’s something so heartwarming about the sweet, caramelized onions mingling with savory broth. Each spoonful feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
The aroma that fills my kitchen while it simmers is absolutely irresistible. Plus, I appreciate how easy it’s to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
Topping it with crusty bread and bubbling cheese adds a delightful finish. Trust me, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your home!
Ingredients of Vegetarian French Onion Soup
When it comes to making a scrumptious bowl of Vegetarian French Onion Soup, the ingredients play a vital role in creating that rich, flavorful experience we all crave. It’s a simple list, but each item has its part to play, transforming ordinary components into a bowl of warmth. So, let’s gather what you need to make this delightful dish.
Here’s your shopping list:
- 2 large onions
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 (14 ounce) cans Swanson vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup dry red wine
- Water (you’ll need a bit for the broth)
- Provolone cheese or Gruyere cheese (sliced is best)
- French bread or any other bread you fancy
Now, let’s chat about the ingredients a bit more. Onions are the star of this show, and you might want to choose sweet onions for that extra layer of flavor. They caramelize beautifully and provide that sweet, rich base we’re after.
And if you’ve never tried Gruyere cheese, oh boy, you’re in for a treat. It melts wonderfully and adds that creamy, dreamy finish that makes this soup feel so luxurious.
Don’t forget to have a good loaf of bread handy; it’s essential for scooping up all that cheesy goodness. Honestly, the bread is my favorite part, though I may or may not have been caught sneaking a few slices before they even made it to the soup.
How to Make Vegetarian French Onion Soup
To whip up a delightful Vegetarian French Onion Soup, you’ll want to start by preparing the onions. Grab those 2 large onions, and slice them in half before cutting them into thin strips. The thinner, the better – we want them to caramelize beautifully.
In a large pot, drizzle in 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Turn the heat to medium and let that butter melt until it’s bubbly and golden. Then, toss in your sliced onions. As they start to soften, sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of sugar. This is where the magic happens – the sugar helps the onions caramelize, turning them a lovely golden brown and enhancing their natural sweetness.
Keep stirring and cooking for about 20 to 30 minutes. It may seem a bit tedious, but trust me, those caramelized onions are worth the wait. Just make sure you don’t get distracted by that Netflix show you’ve been meaning to catch up on; burnt onions aren’t a good look.
Once your onions are gloriously caramelized, it’s time to add a dash of sophistication. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour over the onions and mix it in well. This will help thicken the soup later on.
Now, pour in 1/2 cup of dry red wine, and don’t forget to scrape the bottom of the pot – that’s all the flavorful goodness you want to incorporate. After that, add 2 cans (14 ounces each) of Swanson vegetable broth and a can of water (just enough to fill the pot). Bring the whole mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
It should smell divine by now, and you might find yourself sneaking a little taste – it’s practically a requirement.
While your soup simmers, preheat your oven to 350°F. Slice up some French bread into 1-inch slices and pop those on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven until they’re nice and crispy; this will be the perfect vessel for your cheesy topping.
Once your soup is ready, ladle it into bowls, add a slice of that toasted bread, and top it all off with some slices of provolone or Gruyere cheese. Now, here’s the fun part: set your broiler to high and let the cheese melt and bubble until it’s beautifully browned and irresistible.
Just keep an eye on it; nobody wants charred cheese instead of that golden goodness. Finally, dig in and enjoy the cozy warmth of your homemade Vegetarian French Onion Soup. Honestly, it’s like a hug in a bowl, and you might just find yourself going back for seconds – or thirds. No judgment here.
Vegetarian French Onion Soup Substitutions & Variations
While the classic Vegetarian French Onion Soup is delicious as it is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can explore to make it your own.
For a deeper flavor, try using a mix of yellow and red onions. You can swap out the dry red wine for sherry or even a splash of balsamic vinegar.
If you want a creamier texture, add a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk. For the cheese, consider vegan alternatives or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the taste even further!
Additional Tips & Notes
If you’re looking to enhance your Vegetarian French Onion Soup, consider a few extra tips that can elevate your dish.
First, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth. Fresh herbs, like thyme or bay leaves, can add a lovely aroma.
I also recommend using a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile; combining provolone with gruyere works beautifully.
Don’t rush the caramelizing process; patience is key!
Finally, serve your soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Trust me, these little touches can make a big difference in your soup’s overall taste and presentation!