​This Fantastic French Onion Soup Is The Perfect Comfort Food

The key to this recipe is to cook the onions slowly until they become caramelised.

Throughout history, onion soup was seen as peasant food because onions were cheap, plentiful and easy to grow. The modern version of this soup originated in France in the eighteenth century and uses beef stock as its base. It can be difficult to find a good French onion soup recipe, but I can certainly stand by this version.

As this recipe serves more than two, you can enjoy the leftovers the next day.

Instructions

Step 1

In a large heavy-based pan (casserole or similar), heat the oil and the butter. Once the butter has melted, add the onions and garlic and sauté over a high heat for 5 minutes. Reduce the heat and leave to sauté gently for 20 minutes.

Step 2

It’s important to cook the onions slowly and to stir them frequently. The key is to allow the flavours to come out, which will happen as the onions begin to brown and caramelise.

Step 3

Add the stock, wine and sugar and season with salt and pepper. Increase the heat and allow to boil for 5 minutes, and then reduce the heat and simmer for a further 35 minutes.

Step 4

If you like, you can pop some slices of baguette topped with Gruyère cheese under the grill until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Step 5

Serve the soup with one or two of these toasted cheese croutons on top.

And there you have it, a deliciously comforting meal that works as a dinner or lunch. It's also perfect for entertaining guests, they'll be seriously impressed at your skills!