Alcohol-Free French Onion Soup: A Classic Recipe Reimagined

While the traditional French onion soup calls for a dash of dry white wine, it's entirely possible and delicious to make a version that eschews alcohol. Below, we'll explore a simple recipe that substitutes wine with broth and enhances the flavor with other robust ingredients.

Alcohol-Free French Onion Soup Recipe

Ingredients

4 large onions, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter 4 cups beef broth or vegetable broth (vegetarian version) 1 teaspoon sugar (to help caramelize the onions) 1 teaspoon dried thyme or a few sprigs of fresh thyme Salt and pepper, to taste 1 bay leaf Baguette slices, toasted 1 cup grated cheese (such as Gruyère or Swiss)

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions

Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 30-40 minutes until the onions are deeply caramelized. If the onions start to stick, add a splash of broth or water to prevent burning.

Add Flavor

Once the onions are caramelized, sprinkle in the sugar and thyme. Stir for another minute.

De-glaze the Pot

Add a small amount of broth (about 1/2 cup) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom.

Simmer the Soup

Pour in the remaining broth and add the bay leaf. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 20-30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Prepare the Topping

Preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the toasted baguette slices on top of the soup in oven-safe bowls and sprinkle with cheese.

Broil

Place the bowls under the broiler until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown (about 2-5 minutes).

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Conclusion

Enjoy your delicious alcohol-free French onion soup! It may not be the traditional recipe, but it's a tasty and healthy alternative that retains the rich, comforting flavors of the classic version.

While the traditional recipe does call for a splash of dry white wine, substituting it with broth can still yield a delightful result. This version of French onion soup is vegan and vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for those looking to avoid alcohol or follow certain dietary restrictions.

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add a sprinkle of fresh herbs before broiling for added flavor. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy meal, this alcohol-free French onion soup is sure to satisfy.