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French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup for Ultimate Cozy Nights

An indulgent, heartwarming soup featuring rich flavors of beef short ribs, caramelized onions, and melty cheese, perfect for chilly evenings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Soups
Cuisine: French
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Soup
  • 3 pounds Beef Short Ribs Can substitute with chicken thighs for a lighter version.
  • 4 large Onions Caramelized for sweetness and depth.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced for maximum flavor enhancement.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For searing the beef.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter To aid in caramelizing the onions.
  • 6 cups Beef Broth Essential for a hearty base.
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce For added umami flavor.
  • 1 leaf Bay Leaf Infuses the soup with aromatic flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon Thyme Fresh or dried.
For the Topping
  • 1 loaf Baguette or Sourdough Bread Toast before serving for best texture.
  • 2 cups Gruyère Cheese Shredded, can substitute with other melting cheeses.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme Optional garnish.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear them for 3–4 minutes on each side until a rich golden-brown crust forms. Remove and set aside.
  2. Lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the sliced onions, stirring frequently for about 25–30 minutes until soft and golden brown.
  3. Once caramelized, add 3 minced garlic cloves and stir for 1–2 minutes. Return the short ribs, add 6 cups of beef broth, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 bay leaf, and 1 teaspoon of thyme. Mix well.
  4. Bring soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover pot and let it simmer for about 3 hours.
  5. Preheat the broiler to high. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls, top with toasted bread, and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
  6. Broil for 2–3 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly. Remove and let cool slightly.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Use a Dutch oven for even cooking. Ensure to caramelize onions to enhance sweetness. Allow full simmering time for tender beef and deep flavors.

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