Elevate your soup game: delicious instant pot french onion soup recipe for savory cravings

Indulge in the tantalizing aroma and rich flavors of classic French onion soup, now made effortlessly in your Instant Pot. This beloved dish, once requiring hours of slow simmering, can now be enjoyed in a fraction of the time, preserving all its comforting goodness.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 sprig fresh thyme
• 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• French bread slices, for serving

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Onions:

• Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode.
• Add the butter and olive oil.
• Once hot, add the sliced onions, salt, and pepper.
• Sauté for 10-12 minutes, or until the onions are softened and golden brown.

2. Deglaze and Add Flour:

• Add the white wine (if using) and cook for 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
• Sprinkle in the flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.

3. Pour in Liquids:

• Add the beef broth, bay leaf, and thyme.
• Bring to a boil.

4. Pressure Cook:

• Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Pressure Cook” on high for 15 minutes.

5. Quick Release:

• Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of pressure.

6. Simmer and Season:

• Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode again.
• Simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the soup has thickened slightly.
• Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.

7. Garnish and Serve:

• Ladle the soup into bowls.
• Top with grated Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses.
• Serve with toasted French bread slices for dipping.

Variations:

• Use Different Onions: Experiment with different types of onions, such as red or Vidalia onions, for a unique flavor profile.
• Add Veggies: Enhance the soup with chopped carrots, celery, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
• Top with Croutons: For a crunchy topping, add homemade or store-bought croutons.
• Make it Vegetarian: Replace the beef broth with vegetable broth for a meatless version.

Health Benefits:

French onion soup is not only delicious but also surprisingly nutritious:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Onions are packed with antioxidants, such as quercetin, which protect against cell damage.
• Low in Calories: A serving of French onion soup is relatively low in calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
• Good Source of Vitamins: Onions provide essential vitamins like vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin B6.
• May Support Digestion: The probiotics in onions can promote a healthy digestive system.

Tips for Success:

• Caramelize the Onions Thoroughly: The longer you sauté the onions, the sweeter and more flavorful they will become.
• Use a Good Quality Broth: The broth forms the base of the soup, so choose a high-quality beef or vegetable broth.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Avoid overloading the Instant Pot, as this can prevent the onions from caramelizing properly.
• Let the Soup Rest: Before serving, allow the soup to rest for 15-20 minutes to develop its full flavor.

Alternatives to Instant Pot:

If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can still make French onion soup using other methods:

• Slow Cooker: Cook the soup on low for 6-8 hours.
• Stovetop: Simmer the soup in a large pot over medium heat for 45-60 minutes.
• Oven: Bake the soup in a covered casserole dish at 350°F for 30-45 minutes.

“Say Cheese!” to Variations

• Gruyère: A classic choice with a nutty and slightly salty flavor.
• Parmesan: Adds a sharp and tangy note.
• Mozzarella: Melts beautifully and provides a creamy texture.
• Provolone: A mild and flavorful cheese that complements the soup well.
• Swiss: A nutty and slightly sweet cheese that adds a touch of Alpine flair.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Can I use frozen onions?
A: Yes, you can use frozen onions. However, they may release more moisture, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Is it okay to skip the white wine?
A: Yes, the white wine is optional. You can substitute it with additional beef broth if desired.
Q: How can I make the soup vegetarian?
A: Replace the beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the Parmesan cheese.
Q: Can I store the soup?
A: Yes, the soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: How can I reheat the soup?
A: You can reheat the soup in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat.