French Onion Soup is a timeless classic that has been enjoyed for generations. It’s the perfect comforting dish for chilly evenings or lazy weekend afternoons. The dish is made up of a hearty broth, caramelized onions, and a layer of melted cheese, all served with a crispy slice of bread on top. While the traditional recipe is already delicious, adding a touch of cognac can elevate the flavors to the next level. Here is how to make a delectable French Onion Soup with cognac that is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
4 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons of butter
2 tablespoons of olive oil
2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
1/2 cup of cognac
4 cups of beef broth
2 sprigs of fresh thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper to taste
Baguette or French bread, sliced
2 cups of shredded Gruyere cheese
Instructions:
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil together.
Add the sliced onions to the pot and cook them for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and soft.
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to combine.
Pour in the cognac and stir well to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Add the beef broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper to the pot and bring to a simmer.
Let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.
While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F.
Arrange the sliced bread on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for a few minutes until they are lightly browned and crisp.
Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf from the soup.
Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls and top each bowl with a slice of toasted bread.
Sprinkle the shredded Gruyere cheese over the bread, making sure to cover it completely.
Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 3-5 minutes.
Serve your delicious French Onion Soup with cognac hot and bubbly, garnished with additional fresh thyme or chopped parsley if desired. The addition of cognac adds a rich depth of flavor to the dish, making it a perfect comforting meal for cold winter nights.
