- Chicken stock (4 cups) - optional for added richness
- Butter (3 tablespoons)
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
- Salt (to taste, adjust according to preference)
- Black pepper (to taste, freshly ground recommended)
- **Thickening Agents:**
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons)
- Cornstarch (1 tablespoon) – for an extra thick and smooth soup
- **Cheese Layering:**
- Gruyère cheese (shredded, about 3 cups)
- Parmesan cheese (grated, about ½ cup) – for added depth of flavor
- Mozzarella cheese (sliced or shredded, optional for a gooey layer on top)
- **Crust Topping:**
- Crusty bread (1 large loaf, cut into thick slices)
- Butter (for toasting the bread slices)
- **Garnish and Flavor Boost:**
- Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme) – for garnishing
- Garlic powder (optional, for a subtle boost in flavor)
Using these ingredients will help you create a delicious and SEO-friendly basic onion soup cheese. Make sure to optimize your content by incorporating keywords like "onion soup," "cheese," "vegetable broth," and "gruyère" throughout your recipe descriptions or blog posts.
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Steps
## Basic Onion Soup Cheese Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
### Introduction to Onion Soup Cheese
Onion soup cheese is a classic French dish that combines the sweet caramelized flavor of onions with creamy melted cheese. This comforting soup is perfect for cooler months and can be customized with different types of cheese or served with crusty bread. Here’s how you can make this delicious treat at home!
### Ingredients Needed
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons (60 ml) olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped (optional)
### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### Step 1: Prepare the Onions
1. **Peel and slice the onions**: Start by peeling off the outer layer of the onion and then slicing it into thin strips.
2. **Sauté the onions**: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, stirring occasionally until they turn translucent.
#### Step 2: Cook the Onions to Caramelize
1. Continue cooking the onions for about 30-40 minutes or until they are soft and golden brown.
2. Stir frequently with a wooden spoon to prevent burning and ensure even caramelization.
#### Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer
1. Once the onions are caramelized, add beef broth (or vegetable broth) to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
2. Let it cook for another 5-10 minutes until the liquid has slightly reduced and flavors have melded together.
#### Step 4: Layering the Soup
1. Ladle the onion-broth mixture into individual bowls or a large serving dish.
2. Top each portion with grated Gruyère cheese, ensuring it covers the surface evenly.
#### Step 5: Baking and Serving
1. Place the dishes under a preheated broiler for about 3-4 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
2. Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning.
3. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, if desired.
### Tips and Variations
- **Cheese Options**: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as Emmental, gruyère, or a blend for added flavor.
- **Vegetarian Option**: Replace beef broth with vegetable broth and use vegetarian butter or oil.
- **Herbs and Spices**: Add some garlic powder or dried thyme for extra depth of flavor.
### Conclusion
Making onion soup cheese at home is a delightful way to enjoy this classic French dish. With its rich, savory flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Experiment with different ingredients and techniques to create your own unique twist on this comforting recipe!
By following these detailed steps, you can easily prepare an impressive onion soup cheese that will impress your guests and warm up even the coldest evenings.