The Famous Barr Onion Soup Recipe is a legendary recipe that brings a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen. Originally served at the Famous-Barr department store restaurants, this soup became an iconic dish cherished by generations.
Known for its rich, caramelized onions, savory broth, and cheesy topping, it’s a comforting and elegant meal perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or trying it for the first time, this recipe captures the authentic taste of a true classic, ensuring a satisfying and memorable dining experience.
Why Is Onion Soup Famous In France?
Onion soup is famous in France because it has a rich history. It dates back to Roman times but became iconic in French cuisine. It was once a humble dish for the poor, made with simple ingredients like onions and bread.
The caramelized onions create deep flavor, and the melted cheese on top adds comfort. I think it represents French culinary tradition—elevating basic ingredients into something extraordinary.
How To Make Famous Barr Onion Soup Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: Approximately 2 hours 10 minutes
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 20 minutes
Course: Soup
Cuisine: French-American
Yield: 8 servings (2 quarts)
Equipment Needed
- Large soup pot
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Ovenproof bowls or crocks
- Broiler
Ingredients
- 3 pounds onions, peeled and sliced 1/8 inch thick
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter or margarine
- 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 quarts beef bouillon (canned or homemade)
- 1 cup white wine (optional)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- French bread, sliced
- 1/2 pound imported Swiss cheese (Emmenthaler or Gruyère preferred), grated
Instructions
Sauté The Onions
In a large soup pot, melt the butter over low heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté slowly for 1 1/2 hours, stirring frequently, until they become golden brown. This slow cooking develops the onions’ natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
Add Seasonings And Flour
Incorporate the freshly ground black pepper, paprika, and bay leaf into the sautéed onions. Stir well to combine. Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and cook over low heat for an additional 10 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. This step helps to thicken the soup.
Add Bouillon And Simmer
Gradually add the beef bouillon to the pot, stirring continuously to ensure a smooth consistency. If using white wine, add it at this stage.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Adjust the color to a rich brown, if desired, using caramel coloring or liquid brown sauce. Season with salt to taste.
Refrigerate Overnight
For optimal flavor, refrigerate the soup overnight. This resting period enhances the depth and richness of the soup.
Prepare For Serving
When ready to serve, reheat the soup gently. Ladle approximately 1 cup of hot soup into each ovenproof bowl. Top with three 1/2-inch slices of French bread, ensuring they cover the surface. Generously sprinkle grated Swiss cheese over the bread.
Broil And Serve
Place the bowls under a preheated broiler for about 5 minutes at 550 degrees Fahrenheit, or until the cheese melts and achieves a golden-brown crust. Carefully remove from the broiler and serve immediately, exercising caution as the bowls will be hot.
Nutrition Facts Of Famous Barr Onion Soup Recipe
Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
- Sodium: 1500 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Dietary Fiber: 4 g
- Sugars: 10 g
- Protein: 20 g
Serving Suggestions Of Famous Barr Onion Soup Recipe
This French Onion Soup pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette, balancing the soup’s richness. A glass of dry white wine or light-bodied red wine complements the flavors beautifully. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a steak or roasted chicken.
Tips And Variations Of Famous Barr Onion Soup Recipe
Onion Selection: While the original recipe calls for Bermuda onions, yellow onions can be a suitable substitute if unavailable.
Cheese Options: Gruyère cheese is traditional, but feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like provolone or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Version: To make a vegetarian version, substitute beef bouillon with a robust vegetable broth.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and bread to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
Making the Famous-Barr onion soup recipe at home is a delightful way to enjoy a classic, nostalgic dish that’s rich in flavor and steeped in history.
This iconic soup is all about the perfect balance of sweet caramelized onions, savory broth, and a golden layer of melted cheese over crusty bread.
It’s a comforting reminder of the beloved Famous-Barr department store days, bringing warmth and tradition right to your table. I hope you enjoy creating this timeless recipe as much as I do.
Famous Barr Onion Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Ovenproof bowls or crocks
- Broiler
Ingredients Â
- 3 pounds onions peeled and sliced 1/8 inch thick
- 1/2 cup 1 stick butter or margarine
- 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 quarts beef bouillon canned or homemade
- 1 cup white wine optional
- 2 teaspoons salt
- French bread sliced
- 1/2 pound imported Swiss cheese Emmenthaler or Gruyère preferred, grated
InstructionsÂ
Sauté The Onions
- In a large soup pot, melt the butter over low heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté slowly for 1 1/2 hours, stirring frequently, until they become golden brown. This slow cooking develops the onions’ natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
Add Seasonings And Flour
- Incorporate the freshly ground black pepper, paprika, and bay leaf into the sautéed onions. Stir well to combine. Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and cook over low heat for an additional 10 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. This step helps to thicken the soup.
Add Bouillon And Simmer
- Gradually add the beef bouillon to the pot, stirring continuously to ensure a smooth consistency. If using white wine, add it at this stage.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. Adjust the color to a rich brown, if desired, using caramel coloring or liquid brown sauce. Season with salt to taste.
Refrigerate Overnight
- For optimal flavor, refrigerate the soup overnight. This resting period enhances the depth and richness of the soup.
Prepare For Serving
- When ready to serve, reheat the soup gently. Ladle approximately 1 cup of hot soup into each ovenproof bowl. Top with three 1/2-inch slices of French bread, ensuring they cover the surface. Generously sprinkle grated Swiss cheese over the bread.
Broil And Serve
- Place the bowls under a preheated broiler for about 5 minutes at 550 degrees Fahrenheit, or until the cheese melts and achieves a golden-brown crust. Carefully remove from the broiler and serve immediately, exercising caution as the bowls will be hot.
Hello! I am Shikha, I am a soup recipe maker. I have a lot of passion for making soup. With a journey spanning over five years in the culinary industry, I have carved a niche for myself as a distinguished soup maker whose creations are not just meals but experiences that linger on the palate and nourish the soul. My specialization in soup-making is a testament to my creativity and relentless pursuit of perfection. Beyond my skills in the kitchen, I am an avid writer, passionately sharing my knowledge and insights into nutrition through my writing. My approach to soup-making is holistic, emphasizing each ingredient’s taste and health benefits. A well-made soup can be a cornerstone of a healthy diet, providing essential nutrients while pleasing the taste buds.