Alright, so I decided to whip up some French onion soup the other day. It was a chilly evening, and I was craving something warm and comforting. But then the big question hit me: what the heck do I serve with it?
First, let’s talk about the soup itself. I started by caramelizing a whole bunch of onions. Seriously, it took like an hour, but it’s totally worth it. That sweet, deep flavor is key. Then, I deglazed the pot with some dry sherry – adds a nice little kick. Beef broth, thyme, bay leaf, you know, the usual suspects. Let it simmer for a while to let all those flavors meld together.
The Bread Situation
Okay, so obviously, you need bread with French onion soup. But not just any bread! I went with a crusty baguette, sliced it up, and toasted it lightly. Then, the magic happens: I floated those toasted baguette slices on top of the soup and piled on the Gruyère cheese. Broiled it until the cheese was bubbly and golden brown. That cheesy, crusty top is what makes this soup so ridiculously good.
Side Salad Showdown
Now, for a side dish. I figured something light and fresh would balance out the richness of the soup. I made a simple green salad with mixed greens, a little vinaigrette, and some shaved Parmesan cheese. It was a nice contrast to the heavy soup, and it cleansed the palate between bites.
Trying Something Different
I was feeling a bit adventurous, so I also tried serving it with a small plate of roasted vegetables. I tossed some carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roasted them until they were tender and slightly caramelized. The sweetness of the roasted veggies paired surprisingly well with the savory soup.
The Verdict
- Baguette with Gruyère: A must-have, no question.
- Green Salad: A great way to balance the richness.
- Roasted Vegetables: A surprisingly good, slightly more adventurous option.
So, there you have it. My French onion soup serving experiment. Honestly, you can’t really go wrong. Just pick something that you think will complement the soup’s flavors and enjoy! I am not a wine guy, so I did not pair it with wine. If you are, that is also an option!
