French Pearl Onion Soup

Let’s Make Soup!

Step 1: Prep the Onions

1. Blanch pearl onions in boiling water (1-2 minutes), then plunge into ice water. Trim ends and peel.

Step 2: Caramelize Those Onions!

1. Melt butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onions; cook 10-15 minutes, stirring often, until deeply caramelized and golden brown.
3. Add garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Broth

1. Sprinkle flour over onions; stir until combined. Cook 1-2 minutes.
2. Slowly pour in white wine, stirring constantly. Simmer 2-3 minutes.
3. Add broth, thyme, bay leaf, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 25-30 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

1. Preheat broiler.
2. Toast baguette slices under broiler (1-2 minutes per side) until golden.

Step 5: Assemble and Broil

1. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each with a toasted baguette slice.
2. Generously sprinkle Gruyère cheese over bread.
3. Broil 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
4. Let cool slightly, then serve hot!

Tips & Tricks

• Onion Peeling Hack: Blanching makes peeling much easier!
• Wine Swap: Substitute with extra broth if desired (but wine adds great depth!).
• Cheese Options: Gruyère is classic, but Swiss or a mozzarella-Parmesan mix also works well.

Variations

Vegetarian French Pearl Onion Soup

Simply use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Mushroom Pearl Onion Soup

Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms while caramelizing the onions.

Spicy French Pearl Onion Soup

Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes with the garlic.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Ahead?

Yes! Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat and broil before serving.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store leftover soup (without bread/cheese) in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Can I Freeze This Soup?

Yes! Freeze (without bread/cheese) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat.

Enjoy this elegant and comforting soup – perfect for any occasion!