French onion soup is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. But did you know that there is actually a science behind making the perfect bowl of French onion soup? Here’s how:
Ingredients
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tbsp. unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine
- 1 tsp. thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6-8 slices French baguette
- 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
Sautéing the Onions
The first step in making the perfect bowl of French onion soup is to sauté the onions. This may seem simple, but there is actually a science behind it. When onions are sliced, they release a compound called alliinase. This enzyme reacts with the sulfur compounds in the onion, producing a volatile gas called syn-propanethial-S-oxide. This gas is what makes you tear up when cutting onions.
To reduce the tears, it is important to sauté the onions over low heat, which slows down the reaction between the alliinase and sulfur compounds. This will also allow the onions to caramelize slowly and develop a rich, sweet flavor. It may take up to 45 minutes to properly caramelize the onions, but the end result is worth it.
The Broth
The next step is to add the beef broth and red wine to the caramelized onions. The combination of the two creates a rich, savory base for the soup. The addition of thyme and a bay leaf add another layer of flavor, while salt and pepper bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
The Bread and Cheese
The final step in making the perfect bowl of French onion soup is to add the bread and cheese. A slice of French baguette is placed on top of the soup and covered with shredded Gruyere cheese. The soup is then broiled until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
But why bread and cheese? The bread serves two purposes. First, it adds texture to the soup, making it more satisfying to eat. Second, it helps to thicken the soup. The cheese, on the other hand, provides a salty, nutty flavor that compliments the sweetness of the caramelized onions. When melted, the cheese creates a beautiful golden crust over the soup, which is both tasty and visually appealing.
The Perfect Bowl of French Onion Soup
The science behind making the perfect bowl of French onion soup is all about balance. By sautéing the onions slowly, adding the right combination of broth and wine, and adding bread and cheese to finish it off, each component is able to complement the others, resulting in a soup that is rich, comforting, and oh-so-delicious.
