Dr Mobeus
French Onion Soup
French onion soup proves that cheap ingredients can make spectacular food. Onions cost about 15p each and when you cook them low and slow they transform into something sweet, deep and rich. This is proper comfort food that costs less than 55p a portion. The only splurge is the cheese on top, and even cheap cheddar works fine if gruyere feels too posh.
Total cost: £2.10 (£0.53 per portion) – Serves 4 people. Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 45 mins
French Onion Soup
Onions are one of the cheapest ingredients in any shop, and this classic French recipe turns them into something properly special. Slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness.
Ingredients
Method
- Heat the butter and oil in a large heavy-based pan over medium heat. Add all the sliced onions and stir to coat.
- Cook the onions for 30-35 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until they are deeply golden and caramelised. Do not rush this step.
- Sprinkle over the sugar and flour, stir well and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually pour in the stock, stirring constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Ladle the soup into ovenproof bowls. Top each with a slice of bread and a generous handful of grated cheese.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
Tips and Variations
The secret is patience with the onions – 30 minutes minimum on a low heat. If you rush them they will not develop that deep sweetness. You can make the soup base ahead and keep it in the fridge for 3 days. Add the bread and cheese topping just before serving.
Is it cheaper to make this from scratch? Use our Cook vs Buy Calculator to compare the real cost of homemade vs shop-bought.
