French Onion Soup with Apples and Sage

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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This French Onion Soup with Apples and Sage brings a delightful twist to a classic favorite. The sweetness of apples paired with the savory depth of beef broth and a hint of sage creates a comforting dish perfect for any cozy evening.

Ingredients for French Onion Soup with Apples and Sage

Butter is your starting point for caramelizing the onions, giving them a rich, nutty flavor. The yellow onions are the heart of the soup, bringing sweetness and depth as they cook down. Granny Smith apples add a touch of tartness that balances the sweetness of the onions. A pinch of salt and black pepper enhances the flavors, while fresh sage introduces an earthy note that elevates the entire dish. The beef broth provides a robust base, while apple cider adds a hint of sweetness. A splash of brandy deepens the flavor profile. For the topping, a baguette gives a crunchy contrast, and Gruyère cheese provides a creamy, savory finish. A touch of olive oil and sugar on the bread creates a perfect caramelized crust.

Tips & Tricks

  • Slice the onions as uniformly as possible for even cooking.
  • Use a good quality beef broth for maximum flavor.
  • If you don't have oven-safe bowls, broil the cheese-topped bread separately and then float on the soup.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette. A glass of crisp white wine or dry cider would complement the flavors wonderfully. For a more substantial meal, serve with a side of roasted vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, the flavors actually improve after a day in the fridge. Just reheat gently before serving.
Is there a vegetarian version?
Substitute vegetable broth for beef broth and omit the brandy for a vegetarian-friendly option.
What if I don't have Gruyère cheese?
Comté or Emmental are great substitutes, or even a sharp cheddar if that's what you have on hand.

French Onion Soup with Apples and Sage Recipe Walkthrough

Start by melting your butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it's sizzling, add the sliced onions. Give them a good stir and let them cook for about 15 minutes. You're looking for them to soften and start turning golden. Next, stir in the diced apples. Let these mingle with the onions for another 5 minutes, allowing their sweetness to meld into the mix.

Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and sage. Let these cook for about 2 minutes until you can really smell the sage — it’s a lovely earthy aroma that will make your kitchen feel extra cozy. Now, pour in the beef broth, apple cider, and brandy. Bring this to a simmer and let it cook uncovered for 30 minutes. This is where the flavors really come together.

While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 400°F. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush them with olive oil and sprinkle just a bit of sugar on top. Toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes. You're going for a nice golden brown here.

Once your soup is ready, ladle it into oven-safe bowls. Place a toasted baguette slice on top of each and then generously sprinkle Gruyère cheese over the top. Pop these under the broiler for about 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them — you want that cheese bubbly and just starting to turn golden brown.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The addition of apples adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
  • Sage provides a warm, earthy aroma that complements the caramelized onions beautifully.
  • The Gruyère cheese melts perfectly, creating a rich, bubbly topping.
  • Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for a dinner party.

Ingredients

6 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
8 cups beef broth
2 cups apple cider
1/4 cup brandy
1 baguette, sliced
2 cups Gruyère cheese, grated
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sugar

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat and add the sliced onions. Cook for 15 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the diced apples and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.
3. Add salt, pepper, and sage, and cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in the beef broth, apple cider, and brandy, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cook uncovered for 30 minutes.
5. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and sprinkle with sugar. Toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
6. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls, top with toasted baguette slices, and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese.
7. Place bowls under a broiler for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and browned.

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