Introduction
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of this French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup. This comforting dish combines tender beef short ribs with caramelized onions, creating a soup that’s both hearty and flavorful. Topped with toasted French bread and melted cheese, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion. In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins, cultural significance, and provide a detailed step-by-step recipe for this delicious soup.
Origin
French onion soup is a classic French dish that dates back to Roman times. It became popular in France in the 18th century, often made with beef broth and caramelized onions. This recipe takes the traditional French onion soup and adds a modern twist with the inclusion of beef short ribs, creating a richer and more satisfying dish. The result is a delicious fusion of flavors that pays homage to the classic while adding a unique touch.
Cultural Significance
French onion soup holds a special place in French cuisine, symbolizing comfort and tradition. It’s often associated with French bistros and cozy gatherings. The addition of beef short ribs in this recipe adds a luxurious element, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. The combination of caramelized onions, rich broth, and tender beef creates a dish that’s both nourishing and indulgent.
Ingredients Quantity
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound beef short ribs
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of French bread
- 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
Optional Additions
- Sautéed Mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
- Chicken Broth: Use chicken broth instead of beef broth for a lighter soup.
- Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added freshness.
Tips for Success
- Even Caramelization: Stir the onions frequently to ensure even caramelization.
- Tender Meat: Cook the short ribs until they are tender and easy to shred.
- Broil Carefully: Keep an eye on the soup bowls while broiling to prevent burning.
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Sear the Ribs: Season the beef short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear them in the pot until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes each side. Remove the ribs and set aside.
- Caramelize the Onions: In the same pot, add the sliced onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they caramelize and turn golden brown, about 15-20 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Return the Ribs: Return the beef short ribs to the pot and pour in the beef broth. Add balsamic vinegar, thyme, bay leaf, and more salt and pepper if desired.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the meat is tender.
- Toast the Bread: Preheat your oven broiler. While the soup is simmering, place the French bread slices on a baking sheet and toast them lightly in the oven.
- Shred the Meat: Once the ribs are tender, remove them from the pot, shred the meat, and discard the bones. Return the meat back to the soup and stir.
- Assemble: Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls, place a slice of toasted French bread on top of each bowl, and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Broil: Broil the bowls in the oven for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Description
French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender beef short ribs with caramelized onions. The rich beef broth and the addition of balsamic vinegar create a depth of flavor that’s both savory and satisfying. Topped with toasted French bread and melted cheese, this soup is a comforting and indulgent meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 25g
Conclusion
French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is a comforting and indulgent dish that’s perfect for any meal. Its rich, savory flavors and tender beef make it a standout dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this soup is sure to delight.
Recommendation
Serve this soup with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of red wine or a robust ale for the perfect dining experience. The rich flavors and comforting ingredients make this dish perfect for cooler weather and cozy gatherings.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this soup is indulgent, you can make small adjustments for a slightly healthier version. Consider using leaner cuts of beef, reducing the amount of cheese, or incorporating more vegetables. Enjoy this delicious soup in moderation as part of a balanced diet.