French onion soup. The name itself conjures images of cozy evenings, crackling fireplaces, and the rich, savory aroma of caramelized onions. But what about a complete meal? This deeply flavorful soup often leaves people wondering: what goes best with it? Let’s delve into the world of perfect pairings, exploring appetizers, main courses, side dishes, and even drinks that complement this classic comfort food.
Understanding French Onion Soup’s Profile
To find the perfect companion for French onion soup, it’s crucial to understand its flavor profile. This isn’t just a simple broth. It’s a symphony of rich, savory, and slightly sweet notes.
The key ingredient, of course, is the onion. Slowly caramelized onions provide a deep sweetness and a satisfyingly soft texture. Beef broth adds richness and umami depth, while a splash of dry sherry or wine lends a subtle complexity. The toasted baguette, often rubbed with garlic, offers a delightful crunch, and the melted Gruyère or Swiss cheese provides a nutty, creamy counterpoint.
When choosing a meal to accompany French onion soup, consider the overall balance of flavors. Aim for pairings that either contrast or complement these key characteristics. Avoid overwhelming the soup with competing strong flavors.
Appetizers to Prime the Palate
Before diving into the main course, consider a light appetizer that awakens the palate and prepares it for the richness of the soup.
Simple Salads: A Fresh Start
A simple green salad is an excellent choice. The crisp freshness of the lettuce, combined with a light vinaigrette, offers a refreshing contrast to the soup’s intensity. Arugula, with its peppery bite, or a mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette can be particularly effective. Avoid creamy dressings, which might clash with the cheese in the soup. A balsamic vinaigrette is also a good option, its tanginess cutting through the richness.
Bruschetta: A Taste of Italy
Bruschetta, toasted bread topped with fresh ingredients, can be a delightful appetizer. Choose toppings that won’t compete with the soup. Consider a classic tomato and basil bruschetta, or one with roasted red peppers and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Avoid strong cheeses or garlic-heavy toppings that could overpower the delicate flavors of the soup.
Charcuterie Board: A Customizable Start
A well-curated charcuterie board can be an elegant and versatile appetizer. Offer a selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives. Prosciutto, salami, and a mild cheddar or brie would pair well. Avoid overly spicy or intensely flavored meats and cheeses. Add some crusty bread or crackers for serving. A small bowl of cornichons (gherkin pickles) can also provide a refreshing, palate-cleansing bite.
Main Courses that Complement and Enhance
While French onion soup can be a meal in itself, pairing it with a lighter main course can create a more satisfying dining experience.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A Classic Combination
A grilled cheese sandwich is a quintessential pairing with tomato soup, but it also works beautifully with French onion soup. The key is to choose a cheese that complements, rather than competes with, the Gruyère or Swiss in the soup. A mild cheddar, provolone, or even a Monterey Jack would be excellent choices. Use a crusty bread, like sourdough or country white, for added texture. Consider adding a thin slice of tomato or ham to the sandwich for extra flavor.
Quiche: A Savory Tart
A slice of quiche provides a satisfying and flavorful main course. Choose a quiche with ingredients that complement the soup, such as a classic Lorraine (bacon and Gruyère) or a vegetable quiche with spinach and mushrooms. The creamy texture of the quiche provides a nice contrast to the slightly chewy bread and melted cheese in the soup.
Roast Chicken: A Simple Elegance
A simple roast chicken is a surprisingly elegant pairing with French onion soup. The savory flavors of the chicken complement the richness of the soup, while the crispy skin provides a textural contrast. Season the chicken simply with salt, pepper, and herbs, such as thyme or rosemary. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes.
Croque Monsieur/Madame: A French Favorite
Staying within the French theme, a Croque Monsieur (ham and cheese sandwich) or Croque Madame (same sandwich with a fried egg on top) makes a fantastic pairing. The ham and cheese offer a comforting familiarity, and the added richness of the egg in a Croque Madame further enhances the experience. The toasted bread provides a satisfying crunch that complements the soup’s texture.
Side Dishes to Round Out the Meal
Enhance the overall experience by adding a simple yet flavorful side dish.
Roasted Vegetables: A Colorful Addition
Roasted vegetables are a healthy and delicious side dish. Choose vegetables that complement the flavors of the soup, such as carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs, and roast them until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
Steamed Asparagus: A Touch of Green
Steamed asparagus offers a light and refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the soup. Simply steam the asparagus until it is tender-crisp. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Garlic Bread: A Perfect Partner
While the soup already features bread, adding a side of garlic bread can enhance the overall experience. Use a crusty baguette or Italian bread, and spread it with a mixture of butter, garlic, and herbs. Toast the bread until it is golden brown and fragrant.
Potatoes au Gratin: A Creamy Delight
For a truly indulgent meal, consider serving French onion soup with potatoes au gratin. The creamy, cheesy potatoes are a perfect complement to the rich, savory soup. The key is to use a good quality Gruyère cheese in the potatoes au gratin.
Beverages to Enhance the Flavors
The right drink can elevate your French onion soup experience.
Wine: A Classic Pairing
A dry red wine is a classic pairing with French onion soup. A Beaujolais or a lighter-bodied Burgundy would be excellent choices. These wines have enough acidity to cut through the richness of the soup, without overwhelming its delicate flavors. A dry rosé can also be a good option, especially during warmer months.
Beer: A Complementary Brew
For beer lovers, a Belgian Dubbel or a brown ale would pair well with French onion soup. These beers have a malty sweetness and a slightly nutty flavor that complements the caramelized onions and Gruyère cheese. Avoid overly hoppy beers, which might clash with the soup’s flavors.
Non-Alcoholic Options: Refreshing Choices
If you prefer a non-alcoholic beverage, consider sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime. The bubbles and citrus provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the soup. Unsweetened iced tea or a light herbal tea can also be good options.
Putting It All Together: Sample Meal Combinations
To help you create the perfect French onion soup meal, here are a few sample combinations:
- Simple Lunch: French onion soup with a simple green salad and a glass of sparkling water.
- Cozy Dinner: French onion soup with a grilled cheese sandwich and a glass of Beaujolais.
- Elegant Evening: French onion soup with a charcuterie board appetizer, roast chicken with roasted vegetables, and a glass of Burgundy.
- Comfort Food Feast: French onion soup with potatoes au gratin and a Belgian Dubbel beer.
Final Thoughts
French onion soup is a culinary masterpiece, capable of standing alone or forming the centerpiece of a memorable meal. By carefully considering the flavor profile of the soup and choosing complementary pairings, you can create a dining experience that is both satisfying and unforgettable. Whether you opt for a simple salad or an elegant roast chicken, remember to focus on balance and flavor harmony. Bon appétit!
What type of bread is best for dipping in French onion soup?
A crusty, hearty bread is ideal for dipping into French onion soup. The best choices include a baguette, sourdough, or even a rustic Italian loaf. The bread needs to be sturdy enough to withstand the hot broth without falling apart, and the crust should provide a satisfying textural contrast to the soft, cheesy topping and rich soup.
The flavor of the bread should also complement the soup. Sourdough, with its slightly tangy flavor, pairs exceptionally well with the sweet caramelized onions. A baguette offers a neutral flavor that allows the soup’s flavors to shine through. Avoid overly soft or sweet breads, as they can become mushy and detract from the overall experience.
Besides bread, what other appetizers pair well with French onion soup?
A light and refreshing salad makes a wonderful appetizer to balance the richness of French onion soup. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing, or a Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, can cleanse the palate and provide a welcome contrast to the savory soup.
Alternatively, consider a small cheese board with a selection of mild and sharp cheeses. The creamy textures and contrasting flavors of the cheese can complement the soup’s depth and complexity. A few crackers or crostini alongside the cheese board will provide an extra textural element and prepare the palate for the soup.
What kind of cheese should be used for the topping, and are there any alternatives?
Traditionally, Gruyère cheese is used for topping French onion soup. Its nutty, slightly salty flavor and excellent melting properties make it the perfect choice for creating that bubbly, gooey, and flavorful topping. However, other cheeses can be used to achieve similar results.
Fontina is a great alternative to Gruyère, offering a similar flavor profile and meltability. Provolone, especially a sharp provolone, can also be used, adding a slightly tangy note. For a richer, more decadent flavor, consider using a combination of Gruyère and Parmesan cheese. Ultimately, the best cheese is the one that you enjoy the most and that complements the flavors of the soup.
What wines pair best with French onion soup?
The ideal wine pairing for French onion soup should complement its rich, savory flavors. A dry red wine with earthy notes, such as a Beaujolais or a Burgundy, is often a great choice. These wines have enough acidity to cut through the richness of the soup without overpowering its delicate flavors.
If you prefer white wine, consider a dry, crisp white with some body, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay (unoaked or lightly oaked). The acidity of these wines can help balance the sweetness of the caramelized onions. Avoid overly sweet or heavily oaked wines, as they may clash with the savory character of the soup.
Can I serve French onion soup as a main course, and what sides would complement it?
Yes, French onion soup can certainly be served as a main course, especially during colder months. Its hearty broth, rich onions, and cheesy topping make it a satisfying and filling meal. To make it a more complete meal, consider adding a few complementary sides.
A simple green salad or a grilled cheese sandwich are classic pairings. A side of roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts, can also add a healthy and flavorful element. If you’re feeling more ambitious, a small portion of quiche or a slice of artisan bread with flavored butter can round out the meal nicely.
What desserts pair well with French onion soup?
Because French onion soup is a savory and rich dish, a light and refreshing dessert is the best choice to conclude the meal. A simple fruit salad, a lemon sorbet, or a light pastry are all excellent options that won’t overwhelm the palate.
Avoid desserts that are overly sweet or heavy, such as chocolate cake or rich custard, as they can be too much after the savory soup. A crisp apple tart or a pear clafoutis can provide a delightful balance of sweetness and acidity, making them ideal companions to French onion soup.
Is there a beer that pairs well with French onion soup?
While wine is a more traditional pairing, certain beers can complement French onion soup quite nicely. A lighter-bodied beer with some malt character, such as a French saison or a Belgian Dubbel, can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
The subtle fruit and spice notes often found in these styles of beer can enhance the caramelized onion flavors. Avoid overly hoppy beers, as the bitterness can clash with the sweetness of the onions and the savory broth. A malty amber ale or a Vienna lager could also be considered, offering a slightly richer and more complex flavor profile that complements the soup’s depth.