French onion beef short rib soup is the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine sinking your spoon into a rich, hearty bowl filled with tender beef short ribs swimming in a savory broth, layered with sweet caramelized onions and topped with gooey cheese. smoky dry rub ribs The aroma wafts through the air and makes your stomach perform somersaults in excitement, promising an incredible flavor experience that’s both comforting and indulgent.
This soup isn’t just food; it’s nostalgia served in a bowl. Every slurp brings back memories of cozy family dinners, holiday gatherings, or perhaps that one time you bravely attempted to impress your in-laws. It’s perfect for chilly nights when all you want is something that feels like home. So grab your spoon and let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This French onion beef short rib soup is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time for maximum flavor impact.
- The rich blend of beef and caramelized onions creates an unforgettable taste experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Visually, the golden cheese bubbling atop the soup makes it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this soup is versatile enough to adapt to any occasion!
Ingredients for French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Beef Short Ribs: Select well-marbled ribs for maximum flavor and tenderness; they’re the star of this show.
- Onions: Use yellow onions for their sweetness when caramelized; they add depth to the soup.
- Beef Broth: A rich beef broth enhances the flavor; opt for low sodium to control saltiness.
- Red Wine: Choose a dry red wine for cooking; it adds complexity and richness to the broth.
- Thyme: Fresh thyme sprigs bring an aromatic earthiness; dried thyme works too if fresh isn’t available.
- Baguette: Sliced baguette serves as the base for the cheesy topping; choose a crusty one for texture.
- Gruyère Cheese: This nutty cheese melts beautifully; it’s what takes your soup from good to gourmet.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add some oil and brown the beef short ribs on all sides. This step seals in those savory juices and creates a beautiful crust don’t rush it!
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
Remove the ribs and set them aside. In the same pot, toss in sliced onions with a sprinkle of salt. Cook them slowly over medium-low heat until they turn golden brown and sweetly aromatic about 25-30 minutes stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in your chosen red wine, scraping up those delightful browned bits at the bottom of the pot—it’s like flavor gold! Let it simmer until reduced by half.
Step 4: Add Broth and Season
Return the beef short ribs to the pot along with beef broth and thyme. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer gently for about two hours until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender.
Step 5: Prepare Baguette Topping
While your soup simmers away, slice your baguette into thick pieces. Toast them lightly so they hold up against all that cheesy goodness later on.
Step 6: Assemble and Broil
Once your soup is ready, ladle it into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with toasted baguette slices followed by generous handfuls of Gruyère cheese. Place under broiler until bubbly and golden—watch closely because nobody likes burnt cheese!
Transfer to plates and serve hot for an experience that will tantalize your taste buds! Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this divine creation while sharing stories or simply savoring those moments of blissful silence.
You Must Know
- This delightful French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is more than just a warm hug in a bowl; it’s an experience.
- The rich flavors of caramelized onions and tender beef create a dish that’s as comforting as your favorite blanket on a chilly evening.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup, start by searing the short ribs to lock in flavor. While they brown, slice your onions thinly and prepare any herbs. Once the meat’s nicely browned, add the onions to caramelize while you gather your remaining ingredients.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your soup! Swap out short ribs for brisket or chuck roast if you prefer. Add some garlic for extra flavor, or toss in vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrition and texture. Make it yours!
Storing & Reheating
To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days or can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly tender short ribs, allow them to simmer slowly; patience is key!
- Adding a splash of wine during cooking enhances flavor complexity.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; those last-minute tweaks make a big difference!
Sometimes I serve this soup at family gatherings, and I still remember my cousin declaring it “the best thing since sliced bread.” Little did he know, I was just trying to impress him with my culinary skills!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup?
To make French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup, gather the following ingredients: beef short ribs, onions, garlic, beef broth, red wine, thyme, bay leaves, butter, and Gruyère cheese. Fresh herbs like parsley can also enhance the flavor. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich and hearty soup that captures the essence of traditional French onion soup while adding the robust flavor of beef short ribs.
How long does it take to prepare French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup?
Preparing French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup typically takes about 30 minutes for prep and around 2 to 3 hours for cooking. The long cook time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures that the beef becomes tender. While it may take time, the delicious outcome is worth the wait. Plan accordingly to enjoy this hearty dish during a cozy evening or special occasion.
Can I make French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup in advance?
Yes, you can definitely prepare French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup in advance. In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to deepen even further. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove until warmed through. This makes it perfect for meal prep or when hosting guests.
What can I serve with French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup?
French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a baguette for dipping. You might also consider serving a light salad or some roasted vegetables on the side. If you want an extra touch, topping your soup with fresh herbs or additional melted cheese can elevate your dining experience significantly. roasted veggie wraps creamy roasted red pepper soup Enjoy this comforting dish with a glass of red wine for a complete meal.
Conclusion for French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup :
French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup combines rich flavors and hearty ingredients that create a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. By utilizing beef short ribs alongside traditional onion soup elements like Gruyère cheese and fresh herbs, you’ll enjoy a delightful blend of tastes and textures. classic French onion soup Whether prepared in advance or served fresh from the pot, this soup offers warmth and satisfaction on chilly days. Embrace this recipe as a go-to comfort food that will surely impress family and friends alike! For more inspiration, check out this cozy cabbage soup recipe recipe.
French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is a cozy, heartwarming dish perfect for chilly evenings. This rich and savory soup features tender beef short ribs simmered with sweet caramelized onions in a flavorful broth. Topped with gooey Gruyère cheese and served over toasted baguette slices, it promises to impress your family and friends with its comforting taste and aroma. Enjoy this gourmet-style soup that’s surprisingly easy to make!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef short ribs
- 3 large yellow onions, sliced
- 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 French baguette, sliced
- 2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef short ribs on all sides; remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add sliced onions with a pinch of salt. Cook over medium-low heat until caramelized (about 25-30 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Deglaze the pot with red wine, scraping up browned bits; simmer until reduced by half.
- Return short ribs to the pot, add beef broth and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 2 hours until meat is tender.
- While soup simmers, toast baguette slices lightly.
- Serve soup in oven-safe bowls topped with toasted baguette slices and Gruyère cheese. Broil until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (400g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: - For added depth of flavor, consider adding minced garlic when caramelizing onions. - Swap out beef short ribs for brisket or chuck roast if preferred. - Add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrition.
