French Onion Soup with Truffle Oil is a luxurious twist on a classic favorite. This recipe combines the rich, comforting flavors of caramelized onions and beef broth with a hint of elegance from truffle oil. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, it’s a dish that warms both the body and the soul.
Yellow onions are the star here, providing the sweet, caramelized base. Unsalted butter and olive oil help achieve that deep golden color while adding richness. A touch of salt and sugar helps to balance and enhance the natural sweetness of the onions. All-purpose flour thickens the soup slightly, giving it body. Beef broth forms the flavorful foundation, while dry white wine adds depth and complexity. Bay leaf and fresh thyme infuse the soup with aromatic notes. The blend of Gruyère and Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, providing a cheesy, golden topping. Finally, a drizzle of truffle oil adds a luxurious finish.
This French Onion Soup pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a charcuterie board featuring cured meats and pickles to balance the soup's richness.
Start by melting the butter with olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the thinly sliced onions, along with salt and sugar. Cook these slowly, stirring often, until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown, which should take about 25 minutes. This step is all about patience as the onions transform into a sweet, jammy base.
Once your onions are perfectly caramelized, sprinkle the flour over them, stirring for a minute or two. This helps the flour cook out its raw taste and blend with the onions.
Next, gradually pour in the beef broth and white wine, stirring to combine. Toss in the bay leaf and thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Season your soup with salt and pepper to taste, then remove and discard the bay leaf. Preheat your broiler while you prepare the bread.
Arrange the sliced baguette on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until they're golden and crisp. This will be the base for your cheesy topping.
Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls, topping each with toasted baguette slices. Generously sprinkle with Gruyère and Mozzarella. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, usually 3-5 minutes.
Finish each bowl with a drizzle of truffle oil just before serving for that final touch of luxury.