The French onion soup is a true comfort in a bowl. With its caramelized onions, rich broth, and melting cheese, it evokes warm memories of shared meals. The recipe proposed by Hugo Saint-Jacques unveils simple techniques to create this traditional dish. Prepare to delight your loved ones with a golden layer of cheese that will melt hearts and warm souls.
What ingredients are needed to make French onion soup?
To prepare the classic recipe for French onion soup by Hugo Saint-Jacques, carefully selected ingredients are essential. The base of this dish primarily relies on five Spanish onions, which, once caramelized, release a depth of flavor. Complete this with 45 ml of salted butter and 45 ml of olive oil. These two fats contribute to creating a tasty mixture for sweating the onions. Don’t forget to add three garlic cloves, which will bring a pleasant aromatic note.
Of course, no traditional dish is complete without a good stock. Here, you will need 2.5 L of beef broth, whether homemade or store-bought, to give body to the soup. For an even stronger flavor, a glass of red wine and a tablespoon of brandy will enhance the whole. As for herbs, it is advisable to incorporate a few sprigs of fresh thyme, a branch of rosemary, and four bay leaves, which will infuse a delightful aroma during cooking. In terms of garnish, 12 slices of stale baguette, grated cheese, including parmigiano Reggiano and gruyère type cheese, will be essential.
How is the preparation of French onion soup carried out?
The preparation of this soup is a process to savor. Start by slicing the onions and chopping the garlic; this is the moment to get your senses ready for the aroma that will follow. Once these preparations are done, grate the cheeses and cut the slices of stale bread. The idea is to have everything within reach, as the cooking step is crucial. Melt the butter and olive oil in a large pot, then add the onions. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, as the goal is to caramelize them slowly.
While your onions are gently evolving, consider adding a bit of brandy. You just need to flambé it, adding an additional depth. It will be followed by the broth and fresh herbs. This mixture should simmer gently for 75 to 90 minutes. At the end of this phase, season your preparation with salt and pepper before moving on to the gratin stage.
What are the final steps to gratinate your soup?
Preheat the oven on the broil setting and prepare for the ultimate moment of transformation of the soup. Serve it generously in heat-resistant bowls. Then arrange the slices of stale baguette on top and cover them with a good layer of grated cheese. This is where the magic happens: the cheese melts and lightly colors under intense heat. The cooking time under the broiler should not exceed 30 to 60 seconds, so it is crucial to keep a close eye.
Once the cheese has reached a golden color, take your bowls out of the oven. The flavors will waft from your bubbling preparation, making you want to dive your spoon into it. Remember that French onion soup is best enjoyed immediately after preparation; it awaits you to reveal itself.
Why choose a homemade version of French onion soup?
Preparing French onion soup at home represents a true gastronomic discovery, far from industrial versions. This choice allows you to control the quality of the ingredients while adjusting the flavors to your preferences. Who has not felt comfort while savoring a steaming bowl, the cheese still bubbling?
Here are some benefits of making your own soup:
- Ingredient control: choose fresh and quality products.
- Flavor customization: adjust herbs and spices to your taste.
- Economical: making a homemade dish is often more affordable.
- Personal satisfaction: there’s nothing more rewarding than preparing a dish loved by your family.
Where to discover more recipes from Hugo Saint-Jacques’ kitchen?
If you are captivated by the French onion soup and wish to explore more of Hugo Saint-Jacques’ universe, several resources are available to you. His recipes are available on different platforms and especially on the Salut Bonjour website. There you will find not only this famous soup but also other dishes made with passion and creativity.
You can check the following links to enhance your culinary knowledge:
- Simple and delicious onion soup recipe
- Recipe for French onion soup
- Various soup recipes
- Hugo Saint-Jacques
- Recipe video
- French onion soup
The French onion soup is a comforting dish that has managed to stand the test of time thanks to its succulent combination of ingredients. The caramelized onions, paired with the flavorful broth and the aromas of red wine, create an exceptional harmony of flavors. This recipe, proposed by Hugo Saint-Jacques, highlights the richness of traditional French cuisine.
The preparation of this dish constitutes a true moment of sharing, where each step, from slicing the onions to the slow cooking, invites anticipation of the aromas that will fill your kitchen. The final gratin, with the melty cheese slices, offers a crunchy and melty texture, enhancing the tasting experience.
Making this traditional recipe at home not only allows for enjoying a comforting dish but also to delight family and friends with a classic of gastronomy. Whether for an evening meal or a festive gathering, the French onion soup will impress all palates with its authenticity and generosity.
