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James Martin French Onion Soup Recipe

James Martin French Onion Soup

  • Author: Ekani Ella
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 50
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 1x
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: British

Description

James Martin French Onion Soup is a traditional French dish made by slowly caramelizing onions until they reach a deep, golden color and then simmering them in a rich beef broth. Topped with a crusty slice of bread and melted cheese, it’s the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and comforting.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large onions – thinly sliced.
  • 2 tbsp butter – for sautéing the onions.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil – to prevent the butter from burning.
  • 1 tbsp flour – for thickening the soup.
  • 1.5 liters (50 fl oz) of beef stock – for the rich base of the soup.
  • 200ml (7 fl oz) dry white wine – adds depth of flavor.
  • 1 tbsp sugar – to help caramelize the onions.
  • 1 bay leaf – for added aroma.
  • Salt and pepper – to taste for seasoning.
  • 1 French baguette – for the croutons.
  • 200g (7 oz) Gruyère cheese – grated, for the cheesy topping.

Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the onions

  • Heat the butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sugar, stirring occasionally. Cook for 25-30 minutes until the onions are soft, golden, and caramelized.

Step 2: Add the flour

  • Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a light roux. This will help thicken the soup slightly.

Step 3: Deglaze with wine

  • Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 4: Add the stock and season

  • Pour in the beef stock and add the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the croutons

  • While the soup simmers, slice the French baguette into thick rounds. Toast them under the grill until golden and crisp on both sides.

Step 6: Serve with cheesy croutons

  • Ladle the James Martin French Onion Soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a toasted baguette slice on top of each bowl, sprinkle generously with grated Gruyère cheese, and place the bowls under the grill until the cheese is melted and bubbly.