Mary Berry French Onion Soup Recipe

Master the art of French cuisine with Mary Berry's French Onion Soup, a classic dish that is both hearty and elegantly simple. This recipe, featured in Mary Berry's book "Classic" and showcased on her BBC 1 series, is a testament to the timeless appeal of French cooking. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, this soup is perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a more formal gathering.

Mary Berry French Onion Soup Recipe Brief Description

This French Onion Soup combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the depth of beef or vegetable stock, enhanced by the tanginess of white wine and the earthiness of herbs like bay leaves and rosemary. Topped with mustard cheese croûtes, it offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors.

Cultural or Historical Context

French Onion Soup has a rich history dating back to Roman times, evolving into a beloved staple of French cuisine. Mary Berry's version pays homage to this tradition, maintaining the classic elements that have made this dish a global favorite.

Ingredients for the French Onion Soup

• For the Soup:
  • Butter: 50g
  • Olive Oil: 1 tbsp
  • White Onions: 6 large, thinly sliced
  • Caster Sugar: 1½ tbsp
  • White Wine: 200ml
  • Beef or Vegetable Stock: 2 litres
  • Bay Leaves: 3
  • Rosemary: 1 sprig
  • Salt and Pepper: to taste
• For the Croûtes:
  • Thin Baguette: ½
  • Dijon Mustard: for spreading
  • Gruyère Cheese: 25g, grated

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by melting butter with olive oil in a saucepan, add onions to fry until tender and golden.
2. Introduce white wine to the mixture, allowing the alcohol to evaporate before adding stock and herbs.
3. For the croûtes, toast slices of a baguette, spread with mustard, and sprinkle with cheese, grilling until melted.
4. Serve the soup with the mustard cheese croûtes on top.

Storage and Reheating

The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and is freezer friendly. For reheating, warm it on the stove and prepare croûtes fresh for serving.

Nutritional Information

This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals from the onions, with protein from the cheese. The exact nutritional values will depend on the specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese for the croûtes? A: Yes, while Gruyère is traditional, other melting cheeses can also work well.

Q: Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian? A: Absolutely, simply substitute the beef stock with a rich vegetable stock.

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Yes, the soup itself can be made ahead and stored, with the croûtes prepared just before serving.

Dive into the warmth of French cuisine with Mary Berry's French Onion Soup. This recipe not only offers a delicious taste of France but also brings the comfort of home-cooked meals to your table​​​​​​.