Description
Onion Short Rib Soup with Cheesy Gruyère Toast
Rich and hearty, French Onion Short Rib Soup with Cheesy Gruyère Toast is a perfect dish for chilly days or cozy dinners. Combining caramelized onions, tender short ribs, and umami-packed broth, this soup is finished with a golden, cheesy Gruyère toast. Let’s explore how to make this flavorful recipe and include additional tips to enhance your cooking experience.
Ingredients
Ingredients for French Onion Short Rib Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this classic recipe:
- Beef short ribs: The foundation for a rich, flavorful soup.
- Caramelized onions: Sweet, golden onions add depth and sweetness.
- Gruyère cheese: The perfect topping for the cheesy toast.
- Aromatics: Fresh thyme, sage, garlic, and bay leaves enhance the broth.
- French bread: Sturdy slices for the cheesy toast.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Caramelize the Onions
- Melt 6 tablespoons of butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add 4 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced, and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Season with black pepper and continue cooking until deeply caramelized.
2. Prepare the Short Ribs
- Add 2 shallots (sliced), 4 cloves of garlic (chopped), and fresh thyme and sage. Stir well.
- Nestle 4 pounds of bone-in short ribs into the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the onions.
- Pour in 6–8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and ½ cup of tamari or soy sauce.
3. Slow Roast the Soup
- Cover and roast in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 2 ½–3 hours.
- Add 2 cups of baby carrots in the last hour for sweetness and texture.
- Once the short ribs are tender, shred the meat and discard the bones.
4. Make Cheesy Gruyère Toast
- Toast French bread slices in the oven at 425°F (220°C) until crispy.
- Top each slice with shredded Gruyère cheese and broil until bubbly and golden.
Notes
Tips and Variations
Here are some ideas to customize this recipe:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the short ribs with sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free bread for the toast and tamari for the broth.
- Cheese Swaps: Replace Gruyère with Swiss or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
How to Serve and Store
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a light green salad for balance.
- Enjoy with a bold red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, or a refreshing non-alcoholic drink like sparkling water with lemon.
Storage Tips
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze portions (without the cheesy toast) for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.