Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners. With a rich, caramelized onion base and a delicious cheesy topping, it’s a warm, hearty treat that elevates this classic French recipe.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup

Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup is his take on the traditional French comfort dish that combines slow-cooked onions, aromatic herbs, and a rich broth. The soup is topped with slices of toasted bread, often grilled with melted cheese, making it an indulgent meal.

What sets Jamie’s version apart is his approach to achieving perfectly caramelized onions, allowing the natural sweetness of the onions to shine. The combination of beef or vegetable stock, wine, and aromatic ingredients like thyme and bay leaves, along with the final addition of melted cheese, makes this dish a heartwarming and satisfying experience.

Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup, here are the essential ingredients you’ll need:

1. Onions: About 6 large onions, thinly sliced.
2. Butter: 2 tablespoons, to sauté the onions.
3. Olive oil: 1 tablespoon, for cooking.
4. Beef stock: Around 1 liter (or vegetable stock for a vegetarian version).
5. Dry white wine: 1 glass (optional but adds depth of flavor).
6. Bay leaves: 2 leaves, for an aromatic base.
7. Fresh thyme: A few sprigs of fresh thyme, or dried thyme if unavailable.
8. Garlic: 2 cloves, finely chopped or minced.
9. Baguette: 1 or 2 slices, toasted for topping.
10. Grated cheese: Gruyère, Emmental, or Parmesan, to sprinkle over the bread.
11. Salt & Pepper: For seasoning.

Equipment Needed

For making Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

1. Large saucepan or stockpot: For cooking the onions and simmering the soup.
2. Wooden spoon: To stir the onions while caramelizing them.
3. Knife and chopping board: For slicing the onions and chopping garlic.
4. Grill or oven: To toast the baguette slices and melt the cheese.
5. Soup ladle: For serving.
6. Grater: To grate the cheese for topping the soup.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup?

Making Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup involves a few key steps to bring out the delicious flavors:

1. Caramelizing the Onions: Start by heating the butter and olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook them slowly for about 25-30 minutes, stirring frequently. The goal is to caramelize the onions so they turn golden brown, sweet, and soft. This process adds depth to the soup’s flavor.
2. Adding Aromatics and Stock: Once the onions are caramelized, add the garlic and cook for another minute. Then, pour in the white wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the bay leaves, thyme, and stock. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for about 30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Toasting the Baguette: While the soup simmers, preheat your grill or oven. Slice the baguette and toast the slices until they are golden and crisp. Once toasted, sprinkle grated cheese on top of each slice and return to the grill or oven to melt the cheese.
4. Serving: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the cheesy baguette slices. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, savory goodness.

Expert Tips

1. Caramelizing the Onions: Don’t rush the process of caramelizing the onions. This step is crucial to develop the soup’s rich sweetness. Keep the heat on low to medium and be patient, stirring frequently.
2. Stock Choice: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, opt for vegetable stock instead of beef stock. For a deeper flavor, you can also use a mix of both.
3. Cheese Options: While Gruyère is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Comté, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
4. Savor the Simmer: Let the soup simmer for at least 30 minutes, but longer if you can spare the time. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will deepen.
5. Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a couple of days. Reheat gently and toast fresh bread when you’re ready to serve.

Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup is a delightful twist on a classic, bringing together the perfect balance of sweet caramelized onions, savory broth, and a crispy, cheesy topping. With its simple yet deeply flavorful ingredients and easy steps, it’s a perfect dish to enjoy on cold evenings or as a starter for a special dinner.

Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe guarantees satisfaction in every spoonful. So, grab those onions, slow down, and let the magic of this hearty soup fill your home with warmth and comfort.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup

Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup is a delicious, comforting dish, and there are plenty of ways to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a lighter version, a vegetarian alternative, or a more indulgent twist, here are some fantastic variations you can experiment with:

1. Vegetarian Version: While the traditional French onion soup often calls for beef stock, you can easily make it vegetarian by substituting vegetable stock or even a rich mushroom stock. This keeps the soup hearty and flavorful without the meat.
2. Cheese Variations: The signature melted cheese topping is a key feature of French onion soup. While Gruyère and Emmental are commonly used, you can swap them for other cheeses like Comté, cheddar, or even a blue cheese like Roquefort for a more intense flavor profile. For a vegan option, try a plant-based cheese that melts well, such as cashew-based cheese or a coconut milk-based cheese substitute.
3. Adding Herbs: If you’re craving something with more layers of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves. A few sprigs of thyme can be simmered with the soup to infuse it with a lovely aromatic quality. For a spicy twist, add a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
4. Caramelized Onion Options: While traditional recipes call for yellow onions, you could try experimenting with different types of onions for unique flavor variations. Red onions bring a slightly sweeter and milder flavor, while shallots add a delicate, refined taste. If you’re after a deeper, richer flavor, consider slow-cooking the onions for longer to develop an even more caramelized, sweet taste.
5. Alcoholic Additions: Many French onion soups incorporate wine to boost the richness of the broth. White wine is a classic option, but you could experiment with a splash of red wine or even a dry sherry to add a new layer of complexity to the broth. For a non-alcoholic version, you can replace wine with a dash of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a tangy contrast.
6. Serving Suggestions: To make the soup even more filling or to put a twist on the classic, you can serve it with various garnishes or sides. Try adding roasted garlic croutons for extra crunch, a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley for color, or even a drizzle of truffle oil for a luxurious finish.

These variations let you adjust the soup to fit your tastes and dietary preferences, ensuring it’s a dish everyone can enjoy.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

French Onion Soup can be quite the treat to have as leftovers, but like all good dishes, you need to store it properly to maintain its flavor and texture. Here are some best practices to ensure your soup stays as delicious as the first time you made it:

1. Cool Down Quickly: Before storing your soup, allow it to cool down to room temperature. You can speed this up by placing the pot in a sink filled with ice water. This helps prevent bacterial growth and ensures that the soup retains its best flavor.
2. Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the soup into airtight containers. Glass containers are often a better option as they prevent any residual odors from seeping in, which could affect the flavor. Make sure the container is tightly sealed to avoid any spills and contamination.
3. Separate the Toppings: If you’ve added cheese or croutons to your soup, it’s best to store these toppings separately from the broth. The cheese can become too gooey, and the croutons may become soggy when reheated. Store the croutons in an airtight bag or container, and keep the cheese in a separate container to sprinkle on top when reheating.
4. Refrigeration: French onion soup will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it is stored in the coldest part of your fridge, typically towards the back, to maintain its freshness.
5. Freezing: If you want to store your soup for longer, French onion soup freezes well. Transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room at the top for expansion. When freezing, it’s advisable to avoid storing the soup with any croutons or cheese, as these do not freeze well. The soup will stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.
6. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover soup, you can reheat it on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If you have frozen the soup, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. You can also microwave individual servings in a microwave-safe bowl, but be sure to stir it halfway through to ensure even heating.

Following these steps will keep your French onion soup tasting fresh and delightful, even if you’ve made too much!

What Goes Well With French Onion Soup?

French onion soup is a dish that can be easily served as a main or paired with various accompaniments. Here are some suggestions on what to serve alongside this comforting soup:

1. Crusty Baguette: This is a classic pairing. The crunchy texture of a fresh, warm baguette complements the rich, savory broth of the soup perfectly. You can either serve the baguette alongside the soup for dipping or turn it into croutons to place directly on top of the soup before serving.
2. Salads: A fresh, light salad can balance the richness of the soup. Try a simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette dressing, or go for a tangy Caesar salad to add an extra layer of flavor. The acidity of the dressing will help cut through the soup’s richness.
3. Roasted Vegetables: If you’re looking for something more hearty, roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or roasted potatoes can be a great side dish. The caramelized flavors from the roasting process complement the sweet onions in the soup.
4. Grilled Cheese: For an indulgent pairing, why not serve your French onion soup with a grilled cheese sandwich? The creamy, gooey cheese pairs perfectly with the soup’s rich broth, and the crispy bread adds a nice texture contrast.
5. Wine Pairings: To elevate the meal, a glass of wine can make all the difference. A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the savory flavors of the soup. If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir is a great choice. For a more decadent pairing, you can opt for a glass of French Burgundy or a full-bodied Merlot.
6. Charcuterie Board: If you’re having French onion soup as part of a more elaborate meal, a charcuterie board with a selection of cheeses, meats, and pickles can offer variety and contrast in both flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup is a versatile and comforting dish that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. With easy recipe variations, thoughtful storage practices, and plenty of complementary side dish ideas, this dish remains a favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re making a classic version or experimenting with new twists, French onion soup is a meal that never fails to satisfy.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup?

Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup requires onions (usually yellow or brown), olive oil, butter, thyme, garlic, bay leaves, dry white wine, vegetable or beef stock, French baguette, Gruyère cheese, and seasoning like salt and pepper.

How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup?

It takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to make Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup. This includes time for caramelizing the onions and simmering the soup to develop rich flavors.

Can I Use A Different Cheese For The Topping In Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup?

Yes, while Gruyère is traditionally used, you can substitute it with other meltable cheeses such as Emmental, Swiss cheese, or even mozzarella for a slightly different taste.

What Type Of Onions Should I Use For Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup?

Yellow or brown onions are typically recommended for French Onion Soup because they have a perfect balance of sweetness and depth when caramelized.

Can Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup Be Made Vegetarian?

Yes, to make the soup vegetarian, simply substitute the beef stock with vegetable stock. The rest of the ingredients remain the same.

Is It Necessary To Caramelize The Onions Slowly In Jamie Oliver’s Recipe?

Yes, caramelizing the onions slowly is key to achieving the deep, sweet flavor that defines French Onion Soup. This process typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes over medium heat.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup In Advance?

Yes, the soup can be made in advance. It actually improves in flavor after sitting for a day or two in the fridge. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat before serving.

How Do I Serve Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup?

Serve the soup in bowls, topping each one with a slice of toasted French baguette and a generous amount of melted cheese. Optionally, you can broil it to get the cheese bubbly and golden.

Can Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup Be Frozen?

Yes, you can freeze the soup without the cheese and bread. Just cool it completely before freezing. When reheating, add fresh cheese and bread just before serving.

What Is The Best Type Of Bread For The Crouton Topping In Jamie Oliver’s French Onion Soup?

A crusty French baguette or sourdough is ideal for making the croutons for French Onion Soup. These breads hold up well to the soup and create a nice texture when toasted.