Introduction
French Onion Short Rib Soup with Gruyère Toast combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions, tender beef short ribs, and savory broth.
The dish is topped with golden, cheesy Gruyère toasts, making it an ultimate comfort meal perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
6 tablespoons salted butter
4 medium yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 lbs (900 g) beef short ribs
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (optional, for added depth)
2 sprigs fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Gruyère Toast:
1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
1 ½ cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for brushing)
Instructions
Prepare the Short Ribs:
Season the beef short ribs with salt and pepper.
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
Sear the short ribs until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Caramelize the Onions:
In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining butter.
Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes.
Build the Soup:
Deglaze the pot with red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
Return the short ribs to the pot and add the beef broth, thyme, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover and let the soup cook for 2-3 hours, or until the short ribs are tender and falling off the bone.
Prepare the Gruyère Toast:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet, brush with olive oil or melted butter, and sprinkle Gruyère cheese on top.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Remove the short ribs from the soup, shred the meat, and discard the bones.
Return the shredded meat to the pot and stir well.
Ladle the soup into bowls, top each bowl with two Gruyère toasts, and garnish with fresh thyme if desired.
Conclusion
French Onion Short Rib Soup with Gruyère Toast is a hearty, flavorful dish that marries tender beef, sweet caramelized onions, and a cheesy topping.
Perfect for a winter dinner or a cozy meal with family and friends, this soup is sure to impress with its deep, satisfying flavors.
Enjoy it with a glass of wine or a side salad for a complete meal!