Imagine a cozy evening where the rich aromas of caramelized onions and robust Irish stout fill your kitchen, inviting you to dive into a bowl of warmth and comfort. This Irish Stout Onion Soup is not just any soup; it’s a delightful journey into the heart of Irish cuisine that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy! With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or gatherings with friends. Ready to impress your guests and warm your soul? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Irish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 large onions, sliced
- 1 cup Irish stout
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of bread
- 1 cup grated cheese
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-low heat, ensuring even coating of the bottom of the pan.
- Add sliced onions to the pot and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, allowing onions to caramelize and turn a rich golden-brown color. This process will take approximately 15-20 minutes, developing deep, sweet flavor.
- Once onions are deeply caramelized, pour in the Irish stout, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to incorporate those flavorful fond pieces.
- Add beef broth and fresh thyme to the pot, increasing heat to medium-high and bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- While soup is simmering, toast bread slices until golden and crisp.
- Ladle hot soup into oven-safe bowls, top each with a toasted bread slice, and generously sprinkle grated cheese over the top.
- Place bowls under broiler for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
- Remove from broiler, let cool for a minute, and serve immediately while hot and cheese is still melting.
Tips
- Caramelization is Key: Take your time when caramelizing the onions. The longer you cook them, the richer the flavor will be. Aim for a deep golden-brown color for the best results.
- Choose Quality Stout: The type of Irish stout you use can greatly influence the flavor of your soup. Opt for a good quality stout like Guinness for that authentic taste.
- Don’t Skip the Broiler: Broiling the cheese on top of the soup gives it that irresistible bubbly texture. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
- Customize Your Bread: Use your favorite type of bread for toasting. A crusty sourdough or hearty whole grain can add an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Make It Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just reheat and add the toasted bread and cheese right before serving for a fresh, hot meal.
- Garnish for Flair: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives as a garnish to elevate the presentation and add a pop of color.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 45mg
