Did you know that French onion soup, commonly found in restaurants, originated as a simple peasant soup made with onions, stale bread, and water? While modern versions may be more sophisticated, this soup remains delightfully uncomplicated to prepare at home.
The key lies in patience – the onions must be cooked slowly to achieve a sweet, rich brown caramel color without burning. Although French onion soup is known for its cheesy and flavorful profile, you can create a bread-free version in your slow cooker or Instant Pot.
Duration:
- Prep Time: 10 Minutes
- Cook Time: 4 Hours
- Total Time: 4 Hours 10 Minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients:
- 2 large white onions, thinly sliced (approximately 2 pounds)
- 6 cups low-sodium beef or preferred broth
- 2 cups cheese (or more)
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions:
Slow Cooker
- Add all ingredients except cheese to the slow cooker, stirring well.
- Cook for 3–4 hours on high or 6–8 hours on low. Remove the bay leaf.
Instant Pot
- Set Instant Pot to high sauté. Once hot, add butter/oil. Cook onions until tender (3-5 minutes), stirring occasionally. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute. Turn off the pressure cooker.
- Pour in broth, deglaze the bottom, and stir in salt, pepper, and thyme. Add the bay leaf.
- Close lid, seal the valve, set high pressure, and cook for 25 minutes with a natural release. Remove the bay leaf.
Final Step (using ovenproof bowls)
- Preheat the broiler. Ladle the soup into bowls, top each with cheese, and arrange on a baking sheet. Broil until the cheese melts and begins to brown slightly.
Nutrition Information:
- Serves: 6
- Calories Per Serving: 200
- Total Fat: 13.8g | Saturated Fat: 8.1g | Cholesterol: 44.7mg | Total Carbohydrate: 5.6g | Dietary Fiber: 0.9g | Sugars: 2.7g | Protein: 13.9g |
