Introduction: Making Onion Soup with Purple Onions
Onion soup is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a warm and comforting soup that is perfect for cold weather. While most onion soup recipes call for yellow or white onions, you can also make it with purple onions for a unique twist. Purple onions are sweeter and milder than their yellow and white counterparts, and they also add a beautiful color to the soup. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of making onion soup with purple onions.
Step 1: Gathering the Ingredients for Purple Onion Soup
To make onion soup with purple onions, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4-5 purple onions
- 4 cups of beef broth or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 cup of red wine (optional)
- 1 baguette, sliced
- 2 cups of grated Gruyere or Swiss cheese
Make sure to have all the ingredients on hand before you start cooking.
Step 2: Preparing and Chopping the Purple Onions
Peel and slice the purple onions thinly. You can use a mandolin slicer or a sharp knife for this step. In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and stir occasionally until they are soft and caramelized. This will take about 20-25 minutes. Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the pot and stir.
Step 3: Cooking the Purple Onions for the Soup Base
Add the red wine to the pot and stir. Let the mixture cook for a few minutes until the wine has reduced by half. This step is optional, but it adds a depth of flavor to the soup. Add the beef or vegetable broth to the pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes.
Step 4: Adding Broth and Other Seasonings to the Soup
While the soup is simmering, preheat the oven to 375°F. Arrange the sliced baguette on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes until they are crispy. Set aside. Once the soup has simmered for 30 minutes, taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 5: Simmering the Soup until It’s Fully Cooked
Let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes until it is fully cooked. The purple onions should be soft and tender.
Step 6: Blending the Soup for a Smooth Texture
Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, blend the soup until it is smooth and creamy. Be careful when blending hot liquids. If you’re using a regular blender, blend the soup in batches and let it cool slightly before blending.
Step 7: Adjusting the Seasoning and Consistency of the Soup
If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 8: Serving the Purple Onion Soup with Toppings
Ladle the soup into bowls and top each bowl with a few slices of the crispy baguette. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the top of the baguette slices. Broil the soup in the oven for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot.
Conclusion: Enjoying Your Delicious Homemade Onion Soup
Making onion soup with purple onions is a delicious twist on a classic recipe. It’s a perfect soup for a cozy night in or when you’re feeling under the weather. With a little bit of patience and love, you can make a homemade onion soup that’s better than any restaurant version. Enjoy!
