Balsamic Onion Soup

Onion soup can be such a wonderfully hearty vegetarian meal. Traditionally it’s served with melted cheese on toast, but I’ve kept things lighter and quicker here by just throwing on a handful of grated cheese and letting it melt into the soup on its own.

takes: 10 minutes
makes: enough for 2
2 cups caramelized onions (1/2 quantity of the recipe over here)
2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
large handful cheddar cheese, grated

1. Bring onions and stock to the boil. Simmer for 2 minutes. Taste. Season.

2. Divide soup between 2 bowls. Top with cheese.

Variations

healthier – add in a few handfuls of sliced kale or baby spinach. Simmer until just wilted.

vegan – skip the cheese and add a can of white beans or chickpeas in to simmer with the stock.

more substantial – serve with crusty bread and butter. Or toast some sourdough and rub with garlic and place in the bottom of the bowl before pouring soup over.

freshly made onions – finely slice 750g (1.5lb) onions. Cook in oil, covered until super soft. Add 3 tablespoons cheap balsamic vinegar and cook lid off until thickened and reduced.

carnivore – simmer chopped chicken thighs in the soup until cooked.

short on time – use commercial caramelized onions.

Reheating Guidelines

Warm in a saucepan over a medium heat.

Serving Suggestions

Best in shallow bowls so there is lots of surface area for the cheese.
For a more substantial meal serve with crusty bread and butter or hot buttered toast.

Storage Best Practices

Store in an airtight container or ziplock bag. Will keep in the fridge for 2 weeks or so.
Easy freeze meal? Can be frozen for up to 12 months.

Waste Avoidance Strategy

onions, cheese – will keep in the fridge for weeks. Can be frozen.

balsamic vinegar – pantry.

chicken or vegetable stock – packaged stock will keep in the pantry. Fresh stock can be frozen.

Problem Solving Guide

too sweet – that’s the onions, remember to season with salt or try a splash of soy sauce.

onions crunchy – that means your balsamic onions weren’t cooked enough. Simmering for longer will help soften them now.

bland – be generous with the seasoning and try a splash of soy sauce.

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