French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

Description:

French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup combines the savory, caramelized goodness of French onion soup with the rich, melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of beef short ribs. The soup features deeply flavorful beef stock, tender short ribs, and a mix of caramelized onions, all topped with a cheesy, golden-brown crust. It’s the perfect hearty dish for a chilly evening, offering complex flavors and a comforting, filling texture.

Origin:

French onion soup originated in France in the 18th century and is traditionally made with onions, beef broth, and a melted cheese topping. This variation, incorporating beef short ribs, adds a layer of richness and depth to the already beloved classic, making it a heartier option for colder months.

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 2 lbs (900g) beef short ribs (bone-in)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 large onions, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups (1.5L) beef broth
• 1 cup (240ml) dry white wine
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream (optional for creaminess)

For the Topping:

• 1 French baguette, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 2 cups (200g) shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
• 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

Prepare the Short Ribs:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Season the beef short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear them in the pot until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the short ribs and set them aside.

Caramelize the Onions:

4. In the same pot, add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they become golden brown and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. If the onions start to stick, add a splash of water or a bit of oil.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Make the Soup:

6. Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine cook down for 2-3 minutes.
7. Add the beef broth, thyme, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then return the short ribs to the pot.
8. Cover and transfer the pot to the oven. Bake for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the short ribs are fork-tender and easily fall off the bone.
9. Once the short ribs are tender, remove the meat from the bones and shred it. Discard the bones and return the shredded beef to the soup.
10. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and heavy cream (if desired for extra richness).

Prepare the Topping:

11. While the soup is cooking, preheat the broiler.
12. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them under the broiler until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
13. Once the soup is ready, ladle it into oven-safe bowls. Place a slice of toasted baguette on top of each bowl of soup. Sprinkle generously with shredded Gruyère and Parmesan cheese.

Broil and Serve:

14. Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
15. Serve immediately, and enjoy the rich and comforting flavors of your French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup.

Tips for Success:

• For an even richer flavor, let the soup rest for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
• Use good-quality beef broth or stock for the best depth of flavor.
• If you want a slightly thicker soup, you can blend a small portion of the soup and return it to the pot.

Recommendations:

• Serve with a light green salad and crusty bread for a well-rounded meal.
• Pair with a full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, to complement the rich flavors of the soup.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate for 6 servings):

• Calories: ~500
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 900mg

French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that will warm you up on even the coldest days, with a perfect balance of rich beef, caramelized onions, and melty cheese!