Why Make This Recipe
French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is a cozy and hearty dish perfect for chilly evenings. It combines tender short ribs with sweet, caramelized onions that create a deep and rich flavor. The addition of Gruyere cheese and crispy French bread makes it a complete meal that warms the heart. It’s a great choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends, bringing everyone together to enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness.
How to Make French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef short ribs
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- French bread, sliced
- 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
Directions:
- In a large pot, sear the beef short ribs over medium-high heat until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add sliced onions and cook over medium heat until caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the beef broth, wine, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Return the short ribs to the pot.
- Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 2-3 hours until the short ribs are tender.
- Preheat the broiler.
- Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place a slice of French bread on top, and sprinkle with Gruyere cheese.
- Broil until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve hot.
How to Serve French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup
Serve the soup hot in individual bowls to showcase the delicious layers of ingredients. Make sure each bowl gets a good amount of broth, meat, and cheese. This soup pairs well with a simple green salad or some extra slices of French bread for dipping.
How to Store French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup
To store leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave out the bread and cheese until you reheat it.
Tips to Make French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup
- For more depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar when cooking the onions.
- Make sure to brown the short ribs well for better taste.
- If you want extra cheesy soup, feel free to add more Gruyere cheese on top before broiling.
Variations
You can make this soup with other cuts of beef, like chuck roast or brisket, if you prefer. For a lighter version, swap out some of the beef broth for vegetable broth. You could also experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone, for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use beef stock instead of beef broth?
Yes, you can use beef stock instead of broth; it will add even more flavor to the soup.
2. Is there a way to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can use mushrooms or lentils in place of the beef and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
3. Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day. Just store it as mentioned above and reheat before serving.
