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Savory French Onion Short Rib Soup

French Onion Short Rib Soup - featured image

A comforting soup combining the rich flavors of caramelized onions, tender beef short ribs, and gooey cheese topping, perfect for cozy nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 23 pounds bone-in beef short ribs
  • 45 medium-sized yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 6 cups low-sodium beef stock
  • 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh sprigs
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • Baguette slices, toasted

Instructions

  1. Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs on each side until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  2. Lower the heat to medium and add butter to the pot. Once melted, add the sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes, until they’re golden and caramelized.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze and release any browned bits.
  4. Return the short ribs to the pot. Add the beef stock, thyme, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 2-3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and falling off the bone.
  5. While the soup is simmering, slice the baguette and toast in a 375°F (190°C) oven until golden and crisp.
  6. Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs from the pot. Shred the beef off the bones and stir it back into the soup. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls.
  7. Top each bowl with a toasted baguette slice and a generous handful of shredded Gruyère cheese. Place the bowls under a broiler for 2-4 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
  8. Carefully remove the bowls and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy hot!

Notes

Slow caramelization of onions is key to achieving the soup’s signature sweetness. Taste the broth before serving to adjust seasoning. Gruyère cheese can be substituted with Swiss or mozzarella.

Nutrition

Keywords: French onion soup, short rib soup, cozy dinner, winter recipe, hearty soup, caramelized onions, Gruyère cheese