Jamie Oliver English Onion Soup is a rich and flavorful take on traditional French onion soup, using slow-cooked caramelized onions to create a deep, hearty broth. This soup is comforting, packed with savory sweetness, and topped with crispy bread and melted cheese for a satisfying finish.

What is Jamie Oliver’s English Onion Soup?

Jamie Oliver’s version of English onion soup takes inspiration from the French classic but incorporates British flavors with Worcestershire sauce and English cheddar. The onions are caramelized slowly to develop a deep, sweet flavor, then simmered in a rich stock before being topped with crusty bread and cheese for a deliciously golden, bubbly finish.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Rich and comforting: The deep caramelized onion flavor makes this soup incredibly satisfying.
Simple ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples to create a gourmet dish.
Easy to make: Requires minimal effort, just patience while caramelizing the onions.
Perfect for any occasion: Great as a starter or a warming meal on a chilly day.
Budget-friendly: Uses inexpensive ingredients like onions and bread for a hearty meal.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver English Onion Soup

Onions (5-6 large, thinly sliced) – The main ingredient, providing a deep, caramelized sweetness.
Butter (50g) – Helps soften and caramelize the onions.
Olive oil (1 tbsp) – Prevents the butter from burning.
Garlic cloves (2, minced) – Adds aromatic depth.
Thyme (1 tsp, fresh or dried) – Enhances the earthy flavors.
Bay leaf (1) – Adds a subtle herbal note.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp) – Provides a savory, umami boost.
Beef or vegetable stock (1 liter) – Forms the rich base of the soup.
White wine (150ml, optional) – Adds depth and acidity.
Salt and black pepper (to taste) – Enhances the overall flavor.
Baguette slices (4-6 pieces, toasted) – Forms the classic crispy topping.
English cheddar or Gruyère cheese (100g, grated) – Melts beautifully for a rich, golden crust.

Equipment Needed

Large pot or Dutch oven – For caramelizing the onions and simmering the soup.
Wooden spoon – For stirring the onions.
Knife and cutting board – For slicing the onions.
Oven-safe bowls or ramekins – For the final cheesy topping.
Ladle – For serving.

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver English Onion Soup

Caramelize the onions: Melt the butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deep golden brown and caramelized.
Add garlic and herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Deglaze with wine: Pour in the white wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the alcohol evaporates.
Add Worcestershire sauce and stock: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and pour in the beef or vegetable stock. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it cook for another 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Prepare the bread topping: While the soup simmers, toast the baguette slices until crispy.
Assemble and broil: Preheat your oven’s grill/broiler. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place a toasted baguette slice on top of each, and sprinkle generously with grated cheese.
Melt the cheese: Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
Serve: Remove from the oven carefully and serve immediately with extra bread on the side.

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver’s English Onion Soup?

Crusty bread or sourdough: Perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
Side salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
Roast beef or steak: Complements the deep flavors of the soup.
A glass of white wine: A dry white wine pairs beautifully with the caramelized onions.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver English Onion Soup

Be patient with the onions: Slow caramelization is key to achieving deep, rich flavor.
Use good stock: A homemade or high-quality stock will make all the difference.
Toast the bread well: Ensures it stays crisp when topped with soup and cheese.
Broil carefully: Keep an eye on the cheese while broiling to avoid burning.
Enhance the umami: A splash of balsamic vinegar or soy sauce can deepen the flavors.

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver English Onion Soup

Vegetarian version: Use vegetable stock and skip the Worcestershire sauce or use a vegan alternative.
Extra creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer texture.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a bit of heat.
Herb boost: Experiment with rosemary or sage for a different aromatic profile.

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver English Onion Soup

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Separate components: Store soup and toasted bread separately to keep the bread from getting soggy.

Best Practices to Reheat Jamie Oliver English Onion Soup

Stovetop method: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of stock if needed.
Microwave method: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Re-toast the bread: Toast the baguette slices again before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

How can I make the best-caramelized onions for onion soup?

Cook the onions low and slow for at least 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Using a mix of butter and olive oil prevents burning and adds richness.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently before serving and add fresh toasted bread and cheese when ready to serve.

What cheese works best for English onion soup?

English cheddar gives a sharp, tangy finish, while Gruyère melts beautifully for a more traditional touch. You can also use a mix of both.

Can I use red onions instead of white onions?

Yes, red onions will give a slightly sweeter, more robust flavor, but they still caramelize beautifully for a delicious soup.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver English Onion Soup is a deeply flavorful and comforting dish that brings out the natural sweetness of caramelized onions. Whether enjoyed as a cozy dinner or served as an impressive starter, this soup is guaranteed to warm you up with its rich broth, crispy bread, and bubbling cheese topping.

Pair it with your favorite sides and savor the comforting flavors of this timeless classic.