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Nigella French Onion Soup​

Nigella French Onion Soup​
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Nigella French Onion Soup is a classic onion-based soup made by slowly cooking sliced onions until deeply caramelised, then deglazing the pan and simmering them in stock. Traditionally finished with toasted bread and melted cheese, the soup is known for its deep colour, intense savoury-sweet flavour, and comforting warmth.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 5 large onions, thinly sliced

  • 2 tbsp butter

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 garlic clove, crushed

  • 1.2 litres beef or vegetable stock

  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, helps caramelisation)

  • 1 tbsp plain flour (optional, for slight thickening)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • Fresh thyme or bay leaf (optional)

For the topping

  • Slices of baguette or crusty bread

  • Grated Gruyère or mature Cheddar cheese

Instructions

  • Slice the onions evenly – Thin slices ensure consistent caramelisation.

  • Start gently – Melt butter with olive oil in a large pot over low heat.

  • Cook the onions slowly – Add onions and a pinch of salt, cooking gently for 30–40 minutes until soft, golden, and deeply caramelised.

  • Add garlic and flour – Stir in garlic and flour if using, cooking briefly.

  • Deglaze and simmer – Pour in stock, add herbs, and bring to a gentle simmer.

  • Cook until rich – Simmer for 15–20 minutes to develop flavour.

  • Finish and serve – Season well, top with toasted bread and cheese, then grill until bubbling.

Find it online: https://chefnigellarecipes.uk/nigella-french-onion-soup/