Classic Sweet Vidalia French Onion Soup
Description
Prepare to be enchanted by the warmth and depth of flavor encapsulated in this Classic Sweet Vidalia French Onion Soup, a delightful twist on a beloved classic that not only warms the soul but also delights the palate. Originating from a recipe found in one of Suzanne Somers’ cookbooks, this rendition has been subtly modified to enhance its appeal, particularly for those mindful of their carbohydrate intake. The combination of sweet Vidalia onions and rich beef broth creates a harmonious blend, and for an even lower-carb version, consider substituting a thick slice of portobello mushroom for the traditional bread, topped with shredded Parmesan cheese, which brings a delightful nuttiness and a hint of creaminess to the dish. This soup is truly a labor of love, worth every minute spent in preparation.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 568.9 kcal |
| Total Fat | 25.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 27.4 mg |
| Sodium | 1867.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 61.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.4 g |
| Sugars | 11.5 g |
| Protein | 20.2 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 4 – 5 | Sweet Vidalia onions |
| 4 1/2 – 5 | Beef broth |
| 1/4 | Red wine |
| 1 1/2 | Worcestershire sauce |
| 1 | Mustard seeds |
| 1 | Celery seed |
| NA | Olive oil |
| 2 | Butter |
| 2 | Provolone cheese |
| 2 | Gruyère cheese |
Instructions
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Heat the Base: Begin by heating the olive oil or butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat, allowing it to melt and infuse the pan with flavor.
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Sauté the Onions: Once the oil is shimmering or the butter has melted, add the sliced sweet Vidalia onions to the pan. Sauté the onions for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and fragrant.
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Lower the Heat: After the initial sautéing, reduce the heat to medium-low. This gentle heat will allow the onions to caramelize slowly, enhancing their natural sweetness.
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Add Spices: Sprinkle in the mustard seeds, celery seed, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed among the onions.
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Caramelize the Onions: Continue to sauté the onions for an additional 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The onions should become beautifully caramelized, achieving a rich golden brown color that signifies their flavor transformation.
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Incorporate the Liquids: Pour in the beef broth, followed by the red wine and Worcestershire sauce. Stir the mixture well, bringing all the flavors together.
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Simmer the Soup: Increase the heat to medium and allow the soup to cook for approximately 15 minutes. This simmering time lets the ingredients meld beautifully while developing a rich and complex flavor.
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Preheat the Broiler: While the soup is simmering, preheat your broiler to high, preparing for the final touch that will elevate this dish to new heights.
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Prepare for Broiling: Once the soup has finished simmering, carefully ladle it into oven-proof bowls. For a traditional touch, place a slice of French bread atop each bowl of soup. If desired, you can lightly butter the bread for an added richness.
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Add the Cheese: Place a generous slice of provolone cheese on top of each piece of bread, ensuring it covers the bread adequately to melt beautifully during broiling.
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Broil to Perfection: Place the bowls under the broiler for just a few minutes, keeping a close eye as the cheese begins to bubble and turn a lovely golden brown. The key is to achieve that perfect, slightly crispy layer of melted cheese.
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Serve with Care: Once the cheese has reached the desired level of browning, carefully remove the bowls from the oven using oven mitts, as they will be extremely hot. Allow to cool slightly before serving, as the contents will be piping hot.
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Alternative Method: If you prefer to make this soup in a crockpot, first sauté the onions in butter on the stovetop, covered, for about 20 minutes. Then transfer the onions to your crockpot and cook on low for 5-8 hours or on high for approximately 2 1/2 hours for a set-it-and-forget-it method.
Serving Suggestions
This Classic Sweet Vidalia French Onion Soup is best served hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. It pairs beautifully with a light green salad or crusty bread for those who enjoy a traditional accompaniment.
In conclusion, the richness of flavors, combined with the heartwarming nature of this soup, makes it an ideal dish for chilly evenings, cozy gatherings, or simply to indulge in a comforting bowl at home. Enjoy the satisfying journey of making this classic dish, and savor each spoonful of its delightful essence.
