French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup
French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup: A Hearty Comfort Dish
French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is a delightful twist on the classic French onion soup. This comforting dish combines tender beef short ribs, sweet caramelized onions, and rich beef broth, topped with melty Gruyère cheese on crispy toasted bread. Perfect for chilly evenings, this recipe brings warmth and flavor to your dining table.
Why Make This Recipe
There are countless reasons to try this French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup. First, the combination of tender short ribs and caramelized onions creates an incredibly rich flavor profile. The slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in a soup that’s hearty yet comforting. Plus, topping it with gooey Gruyère cheese and toasted bread elevates the dish to a gastronomic delight. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress!
How to Make French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare your very own French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup.
Ingredients
- Beef short ribs
- Butter
- Onions
- Beef broth
- Thyme
- Bay leaves
- Salt
- Pepper
- Gruyère cheese
- Bread for toasting
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until they caramelize, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Season the short ribs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Brown the ribs on all sides.
- Pour in the beef broth and add thyme and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and transfer the pot to the oven.
- Cook for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and falling off the bone.
- Remove the ribs from the pot, shred the meat, and return it to the soup.
- For the cheesy toast, top slices of bread with Gruyère cheese and broil until melted and golden.
- Serve the soup hot, topped with the cheesy toast.
How to Serve French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup
Serve this hearty soup hot in bowls, garnished with the cheesy toast for a delightful presentation. Adding a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley on top can provide a pop of color and enhance the flavor. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of red wine for an excellent dining experience.
How to Store French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup
To store leftovers, let the soup cool down completely. Transfer the soup into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and warm it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup
- Ensure you take your time caramelizing the onions; this step is essential for bringing out their natural sweetness.
- For added depth, consider adding a splash of red wine to the broth for an enriched flavor.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure the best flavor.
Variations
- Swap out beef short ribs for oxtail or chuck roast for a different texture and flavor.
- Use a dairy-free cheese alternative to accommodate lactose intolerance while still enjoying the cheesy topping.
- You can add vegetables like carrots or celery to the soup for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! After browning the ribs and onions, you can transfer the ingredients to a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours until the ribs are tender.
What kind of bread works best for the cheesy toast?
A hearty bread like a French baguette or sourdough works best since it holds up well when toasted and topped with melted cheese.
How do I know when the ribs are done?
The ribs are done when they are fork-tender and easily pull away from the bone. This usually takes about 2.5 to 3 hours in the oven.
With this guide, you’re well on your way to creating a warming bowl of French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures that this dish has to offer!
French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 lbs Beef short ribs Trimmed and cut into pieces
- 2 tbsp Butter For caramelizing onions
- 3 large Onions Thinly sliced
- 8 cups Beef broth Homemade or store-bought
- 2 tsp Thyme Dried or fresh
- 2 leaves Bay leaves
- 1 tsp Salt To taste
- 1 tsp Pepper To taste
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese Shredded, for cheese toast
- 4 slices Bread For toasting, use French baguette or sourdough
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until they caramelize, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Season the short ribs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Brown the ribs on all sides.
Cooking
- Pour in the beef broth and add thyme and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and transfer the pot to the oven.
- Cook for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and falling off the bone.
- Remove the ribs from the pot, shred the meat, and return it to the soup.
Serving
- For the cheesy toast, top slices of bread with Gruyère cheese and broil until melted and golden.
- Serve the soup hot, topped with the cheesy toast.
