Why You’ll Love this Vegan French Onion Soup Recipe
Why should you try this Vegan French Onion Soup recipe? Well, it’s comforting, rich, and bursting with flavor.
The caramelized onions create a deep, savory base that’s hard to resist. I love how simple it’s to prepare, making it perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests.
Plus, it’s entirely plant-based, so everyone can enjoy it. As the aroma fills your kitchen, you can’t help but feel a warm sense of nostalgia.
Topped with crispy bread and melty cheese, it’s a delightful twist on a classic. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients of Vegan French Onion Soup
When it comes to comfort food, Vegan French Onion Soup is a classic that totally bites back with its deep flavors and cozy vibes. Imagine this: warm, caramelized onions swimming in a savory broth, topped with crispy bread and gooey cheese. It’s like a big hug in a bowl.
And the best part? You can whip it up with just a handful of ingredients. Let’s explore what you need to make this delightful soup.
Here’s your shopping list for the Vegan French Onion Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 medium onions, quartered and thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups water
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup red wine
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard (powder)
- Sea salt, to taste
- Fresh ground pepper, to taste
- 1/2 whole wheat baguette (or Italian style bread)
- 1 1/2 cups grated soy mozzarella cheese
Now, let’s chat about those ingredients a bit. First off, the onions are the star of the show; they need to be sliced thinly for that perfect caramelization.
You can use yellow onions for sweetness or mix it up with some red or sweet onions for a flavor twist. And don’t fret too much about the cheese—there are tons of plant-based options out there, so pick one that melts well for that gooey goodness.
If you want to skip the wine, just add a little extra broth; it’ll still taste divine. Remember, cooking should be fun, so feel free to get creative or swap some ingredients based on what you have lying around in the pantry.
Happy cooking!
How to Make Vegan French Onion Soup
Making Vegan French Onion Soup is a delightful adventure that’s as warming as a cozy blanket on a chilly day. First things first, grab your trusty soup pot and heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat.
Now, here comes the fun part: the onions! You’ll need 8 medium onions, quartered and thinly sliced. Toss them into the pot and sauté, stirring frequently to prevent any browning mishaps. This will take about 20 to 25 minutes, so don’t rush it. The goal is to coax those onions into a beautiful golden caramelization. Trust me, the aroma will be worth every minute. Just keep an eye on them; no one wants burnt onions ruining this cozy vibe.
Once your onions are perfectly golden and fragrant, it’s time to add some flavor magic. Toss in 2 minced garlic cloves and let them mingle with the onions for a couple more minutes until they soften and release their aroma.
Then, pour in 2 cups of water along with 4 cups of vegetable broth and 1/4 cup of red wine—oh, the depth of flavor! Stir in a teaspoon of dry mustard for a little kick, then bring the whole mixture to a gentle boil. After that, lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This is your chance to season to taste with sea salt and fresh ground pepper. It’s like a taste test for your soul, so don’t skimp on the seasoning.
While your soup is simmering away, preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Grab your 1/2 whole wheat baguette or Italian bread and slice it into 1-inch-thick pieces—1 or 2 slices per serving should do the trick.
Lay those slices on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven for about 15 minutes until they’re dry and crisp, flipping them halfway through to avoid any burnt situations.
Finally, to assemble your masterpiece, place a slice or two of bread in each ovenproof bowl, ladle the delicious soup over the top, and sprinkle about 1/4 cup of grated soy mozzarella cheese.
Back into the oven they go for around 10 minutes, or until the cheese melts into a gooey dream. Serve it up hot, and enjoy the comforting embrace of your homemade Vegan French Onion Soup. It’s like a hug in a bowl, and who doesn’t need that sometimes?
Vegan French Onion Soup Substitutions & Variations
Although traditional French onion soup is rich in flavor, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to make this vegan version uniquely yours.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread and make certain your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free. You can swap red wine with balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist or omit it entirely.
If you’re not a fan of soy cheese, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the texture. Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the taste.
Finally, add mushrooms for depth or a splash of soy sauce for umami goodness. Enjoy personalizing your soup!
What to Serve with Vegan French Onion Soup
Pairing the rich, savory flavors of vegan French onion soup with the right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience.
I love serving it with a fresh, crisp salad—try a simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette. For something heartier, a plate of roasted vegetables adds a delightful contrast.
If you’re in the mood for bread, garlic bread or crusty whole grain rolls complement the soup beautifully. You could also consider a side of vegan cheese platter for a touch of indulgence.
Each of these options enhances the experience and makes for a comforting meal. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
When you’re whipping up vegan French onion soup, it’s helpful to remember a few key tips to make the process even smoother.
First, slice your onions evenly for consistent cooking. If you want a deeper flavor, try adding a touch of balsamic vinegar during sautéing.
Don’t rush the caramelization; low and slow is the way to go! For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread.
Finally, if you can’t find soy mozzarella, any vegan cheese will work, but check for melting properties.
Enjoy the comforting aroma as it fills your kitchen; it’s part of the experience! Happy cooking!