A amazing twist on the traditional French onion soup, this version incorporates nutty brown rice for added texture and heartiness. Perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and comforting.
Why This Recipe Works
- The caramelized onions bring a deep, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the nuttiness of brown rice.
- Adding brown rice not only boosts the nutritional profile but also adds a satisfying chewiness to every bite.
- This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for various toppings and mix-ins to suit any palate.
- It’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
- The combination of beef broth and a splash of white wine elevates the soup to gourmet status.
Ingredients
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup brown rice, rinsed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 4 slices of baguette, toasted
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater
- Toaster or oven for baguette slices
Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 25 minutes until the onions are deeply golden and caramelized. This slow cooking process is key to developing the soup’s rich flavor.
Step 2: Add the Rice and Liquids
Stir in the rinsed brown rice, ensuring it’s well coated with the onion mixture. Pour in the beef broth and white wine, then add the thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
Step 3: Season and Prepare the Toppings
Once the rice is cooked, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. While the soup simmers, toast the baguette slices until golden and crisp. Grate the Gruyère cheese if you haven’t already.
Step 4: Broil the Cheese Toasts
Preheat your broiler. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, top each with a toasted baguette slice, and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese. Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the bowls from the oven (they’ll be hot!) and let them cool for a minute before serving. Dive in and enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness atop your hearty brown rice French onion soup.
Tips and Tricks
For an even deeper flavor, consider caramelizing the onions for up to 40 minutes. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked brown rice; just add it towards the end of cooking to heat through. For a vegetarian version, swap the beef broth for a robust vegetable broth and omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Don’t skip the white wine—it adds a brightness that balances the soup’s richness. Finally, if you don’t have oven-safe bowls, you can melt the cheese on the toasts under the broiler before adding them to the soup.
Recipe Variations
- Add mushrooms along with the onions for an earthy flavor and extra umami.
- Swap the Gruyère for Swiss or mozzarella cheese for a different melt and taste.
- Incorporate a splash of balsamic vinegar when caramelizing the onions for a touch of sweetness and acidity.
- For a protein boost, add cooked shredded chicken or beef to the soup.
- Use quinoa instead of brown rice for a different texture and a boost of protein.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Add the cheese toasts fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Is there a way to make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, simply ensure your beef broth is gluten-free and use a gluten-free baguette for the toasts. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy adaptation.
Can I freeze this soup?
You can freeze the soup base (without the cheese toasts) for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove. Prepare fresh cheese toasts when serving for the best texture and flavor.
Summary
This brown rice French onion soup is a comforting, hearty twist on the classic, featuring caramelized onions, nutty brown rice, and a cheesy toast topping. It’s perfect for a cozy night in and can be customized to suit various dietary needs and preferences.