French Onion Bagel Soup

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s infused with the rich flavors of caramelized onions and topped with melty cheese. My family recently gathered around the table to enjoy this delightful French Onion Bagel Soup, and it was an instant hit! The combination of sweet onions, savory broth, and toasted bagels made for a cozy dinner that warmed our hearts and filled our bellies. We each savored the bubbling, cheesy goodness and the joy of dipping the bagel halves into the flavorful soup. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in our household, perfect for chilly evenings or when we crave something heartwarming.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds small-medium yellow sweet onions
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 glug extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon white flour
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 cup extra dry vermouth (or dry white wine)
• 1 generous splash sherry vinegar
• 3-4 generous dashes Worcestershire sauce
• 4 cups beef broth (sodium-free preferred)
• 2 dry bay leaves
• 1 sprig thyme
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt or fleur de sel
• 4-6 cranks fresh black pepper
• 2 pumpernickel bagels, halved and toasted (or bagels of your choice)
• 2-3 ounces Gruyère cheese, shredded per person

Instructions

1. Cut Onions

Start by cutting the onions into thin half-moon segments. This step is crucial for ensuring they caramelize evenly and develop that deep, sweet flavor.

2. Caramelize Onions

In a large pot, melt the butter with a glug of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and toss to coat. Cover the pot and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Brown Onions

Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions begin to caramelize. Add the balsamic vinegar and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, allowing the onions to soften and turn golden brown.

4. Deglaze and Add Flour

Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions and stir for about 2 minutes, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan.

5. Add Liquids

Pour in the vermouth and sherry vinegar, tossing everything together to deglaze the pan. Allow the alcohol to evaporate, which enhances the soup’s flavor.

6. Simmer Soup

Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly. Once combined, add the Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes until the onions are soft and flavorful. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

7. Assemble and Broil

Preheat your broiler. Divide the soup into four oven-safe bowls. Place half of a toasted bagel in each bowl and generously top with shredded Gruyère cheese. Broil for 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

8. Serve

Serve immediately, placing the hot bowls on underplates. Exercise caution, as the soup will be very hot!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the soup hot in oven-safe bowls.
• Garnish with extra thyme or fresh herbs for a pop of color.
• Provide extra Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce on the side for those who like a kick.

Additional Tips

1. Choose Sweet Onions: Yellow sweet onions, like Vidalia or Walla Walla, enhance the sweetness of the soup.
2. Add Garlic: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding minced garlic during the caramelization stage.
3. Experiment with Cheeses: While Gruyère is traditional, feel free to mix it up with other melting cheeses like Fontina or Swiss.
4. Broil Carefully: Keep an eye on the cheese while broiling to prevent burning.
5. Make It Vegetarian: Substitute beef broth with vegetable broth and use plant-based cheese for a vegetarian version.

Recipe Variations

• Herbed Version: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or sage for a fragrant twist.
• Spicy Kick: Include sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Creamy Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving for a richer texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a complete meal.
• Serve with crusty bread or breadsticks for dipping.
• Enjoy alongside a glass of dry white wine for a cozy evening.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The soup can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze without the bagels and cheese. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
• Reheating: Reheat on medium heat, adding a little broth if the soup thickens too much.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of onions?
   Yes, you can use yellow, white, or even red onions, but yellow onions are preferred for sweetness.
2. What can I use instead of vermouth?
   Dry white wine or even a splash of apple cider vinegar can work well.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Absolutely! The flavors meld beautifully if made a day in advance.
4. Is there a gluten-free option for the soup?
   Yes, use gluten-free flour as a substitute for regular flour.
5. What type of bagels work best?
   Pumpernickel bagels are traditional, but any bagel of your choice will work.
6. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
   Yes, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and omit the Worcestershire sauce or use a vegetarian version.
7. How do I store leftover soup?
   Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
8. Can I add protein to the soup?
   Yes! Cooked shredded chicken or beef can be added for extra heartiness.
9. What can I serve with this soup?
   A simple salad or a side of roasted vegetables pairs well.
10. How can I make the soup spicier?
    Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes during cooking for a spicier kick.

Conclusion

French Onion Bagel Soup is a delightful fusion of comforting flavors that will warm you up on the chilliest of days. The caramelized onions provide a deep sweetness, while the toasted bagels and melted Gruyère cheese create a rich, satisfying topping. Whether enjoyed as a cozy dinner or served at a gathering, this soup is sure to impress. Give it a try, and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!

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