The French onion soup is 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 reveals simple techniques to make this traditional dish. Get ready to delight your loved ones with a golden layer of cheese that will melt hearts and warm souls.
What are the necessary ingredients to make French onion soup?
To create the classic recipe for French onion soup by Hugo Saint-Jacques, a carefully chosen selection of ingredients is crucial. The base of this dish primarily relies on five Spanish onions, which, once caramelized, release a depth of flavors. Complement this with 45 ml of salted butter and 45 ml of olive oil. These two fats help create a flavorful mixture for sweating the onions. Don’t forget to add three cloves of garlic, 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 the soup body. For an even stronger taste, a glass of red wine and a tablespoon of brandy will enhance the overall flavor. In terms of herbs, it is advisable to incorporate a few sprigs of fresh thyme, a branch of rosemary, and four bay leaves, which will infuse a seductive aroma during cooking. For garnishing, 12 slices of stale baguette, grated cheese, notably parmigiano Reggiano and Gruyère cheese, will be indispensable.
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 time to prepare your senses 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 at hand, 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 you want to caramelize them gently.
While your onions are slowly evolving, consider adding a bit of brandy. Just flambé it to add depth. This will be followed by the broth and the fresh herbs. This mixture should simmer quietly for 75 to 90 minutes. At the end of this phase, season your preparation with salt and pepper before moving on to the gratin step.
What are the final steps to gratin your soup?
Preheat the oven on the broil setting and get ready for the ultimate moment of transformation for the soup. Generously serve it 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 colors slightly under the intense heat. The cooking time under the broiler should not exceed 30 to 60 seconds, so it is essential to keep a close eye.
Once the cheese has reached a golden color, remove your bowls from the oven. The flavors will waft from your still-boiling preparation, urging you to dive in with your spoon. Remember that French onion soup is best enjoyed immediately after being prepared; it is waiting just for you to reveal its delights.
Why choose a homemade version of French onion soup?
Making French onion soup at home represents a true gastronomic discovery, far from industrial versions. This choice allows you to master the quality of the ingredients while adjusting the flavors to your liking. Who hasn’t felt comfort while savoring a steaming bowl of soup, the cheese still bubbling?
Here are some advantages of making your own soup:
- Ingredient control: choose fresh and quality products.
- Flavor customization: adjust the herbs and spices to your taste.
- Cost-effective: making a homemade dish is often more affordable.
- Personal satisfaction: there is nothing more rewarding than preparing a dish loved by your loved ones.
Where to discover more recipes from Hugo Saint-Jacques’ cuisine?
If you are captivated by French onion soup and want to explore more of Hugo Saint-Jacques’ universe, several resources are available to you. His recipes are available on various platforms and especially on the Salut Bonjour website. You can find not only this famous soup but also other dishes made with passion and creativity.
You can check the following links to enrich your culinary knowledge:
- Simple and delicious French 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 stood the test of time due 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, shines a light on 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 the anticipation of the aromas that will perfume your kitchen. The final gratin, with the slices of melting cheese, offers both a crunchy and creamy texture, enhancing the tasting experience.
Making this traditional recipe at home not only allows you to savor a comforting dish but also to delight family and friends with a classic of gastronomy. Whether for a dinner or a festive meal, the French onion soup will charm all palates with its authenticity and generosity.
