Prepare this flavorful French onion soup in 4 simple steps
French onion soup has been a cornerstone of French cuisine for centuries, evolving from humble beginnings to a global classic. Originating in France, it was once simple peasant fare. Now, we explore a vegan version that maintains the traditional flavors without using animal products. Embrace the essence of this dish as we embark on creating a vegan culinary delight. Let's get cooking!
Gather the following ingredients
For vegan French onion soup, you'll need four large onions, thinly sliced, two tablespoons of olive oil, and one tablespoon sugar (optional). Also required are two minced garlic cloves, eight cups vegetable broth, two tablespoons soy sauce or tamari, one teaspoon dried or two teaspoons fresh thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. For topping: four vegan bread slices and one cup shredded vegan cheese.
Preparing the onions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, cooking them slowly to soften. If using sugar, sprinkle it to aid caramelization. Allow about 25 to 30 minutes for the onions to turn soft and golden brown, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Avoid burning the onions to maintain the desired flavor profile.
Adding flavor layers
Once your onions have caramelized beautifully, add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in vegetable broth along with soy sauce (or tamari) which adds that umami depth which is often missing in vegan versions of traditional dishes. Sprinkle thyme leaves (dried or fresh), ground black pepper, and salt according to your taste preference at this stage.
Simmering the soup
Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat for a simmer of about 15 minutes. This duration is crucial for the flavors to integrate harmoniously. The thyme, soy sauce, and caramelized onions will combine to enhance the soup's savory profile. After this simmering phase, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper as your palate desires.
Broiling with toppings
Activate your oven's broiler to preheat. Ladle the soup into ovenproof bowls on a baking sheet for support. Top each with a slice of vegan bread, then generously cover with shredded vegan cheese. This setup is now ready to be placed under the broiler, where the cheese will melt into a golden, bubbly layer over the bread, completing the dish.
