French onion soup facts for kids
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| Alternative names | Onion soup |
|---|---|
| Course | Starter (entrée) |
| Place of origin | France |
| Region or state | All |
| Created by | Multiple claims |
| Serving temperature | Hot |
| Main ingredients | Onions, beef or chicken stock, croutons, grated cheese |
French onion soup is a yummy and classic soup from France. It's mostly made with onions and a rich meat broth. What makes it special is the cheesy topping! It often has a piece of bread or croutons covered with melted cheese floating on top. This soup has been around for a very long time. It became super popular in the United States in the 1960s. You can enjoy French onion soup as a light meal or as the first dish of a bigger meal.
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The History of Onion Soup
Onion soups have been enjoyed for thousands of years. People in Ancient Rome ate them a long time ago. For much of history, onion soup was seen as a simple food. This was because onions were easy to grow and cheap.
The modern French onion soup we know today started in Paris, France. This happened in the 1700s. It was made with a rich beef broth and sweet, caramelized onions. The soup became popular in the United States in 1861. A restaurant in New York City helped introduce it.
How French Onion Soup is Made
Making French onion soup involves a few key steps. Recipes can be a little different, but the main idea is the same.
First, the onions are cooked very slowly. This makes them soft and sweet, a process called caramelization. Sometimes, a little Brandy, sherry, or white wine is added. This helps to deglaze the pan, adding more flavor.
The soup base is then poured into special bowls. A slice of toasted bread, called a "croute" or "crouton," is placed on top. For the best part, cheese is piled onto the bread. The bowl is then put under a broiler or baked. This melts the cheese until it's bubbly and golden brown. The soup is served right away in the same hot bowl.
French Onion Soup in Stores
You can find instant or dehydrated onion soup mixes in many stores. These mixes are super handy. They are also the main ingredient in French onion dip, a popular snack.
Other Names for French Onion Soup
This delicious soup has a few other names, especially in France:
- Soupe à l'oignon à la Parisienne
- Gratinée Parisienne
- Gratinée des Halles
- Gratinée Lyonnaise
- Soupe à l'oignon Lyonnaise
- Soupe à l'oignon Gratinée
See also
In Spanish: Sopa de cebolla para niños
