Why You’ll Love this Nita’s American Onion Soup Recipe
If you’re searching for a comforting dish that warms both the body and soul, you’ll love Nita’s American Onion Soup. This recipe combines sweet, caramelized onions with rich beef broth, creating a savory base that’s simply irresistible.
The addition of crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch, while the melted cheese on top creates that perfect gooey layer we all crave. Each bite feels like a warm hug, making it an ideal dish for chilly evenings or when you need a little extra comfort.
Plus, it’s easy to make, letting you focus on enjoying the moment rather than stressing in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to share this cozy treasure with everyone you know!
Ingredients of Nita’s American Onion Soup
When it comes to whipping up a warm and cozy dish, Nita’s American Onion Soup hits the spot. The delicious blend of sweet onions, savory beef broth, and crispy bacon creates a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist.
But before we plunge into the cooking process, let’s make sure we’ve everything we need on hand. Gathering your ingredients is the first step to culinary success, and it’s a whole lot easier than searching for that elusive can of beef broth while your onions are sizzling away.
So, here’s the list of what you’ll need to bring Nita’s comforting creation to life.
Ingredients for Nita’s American Onion Soup:
- 4 slices of hoagie rolls or any suitable bread, sliced 1 1/2 inches thick
- 4 slices of bacon, fried crisp and reserved
- 4 tablespoons melted butter
- 4-5 Vidalia onions or 4-5 sweet onions, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cloves of fresh garlic, crushed, peeled, and finely minced
- 5 cans of Campbell beef broth (or 4 Knorr Beef Bouillon Cubes dissolved in 7 cups hot water)
- 1 tablespoon Kitchen Bouquet browning sauce (do NOT substitute)
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 – 1 1/2 cup red wine (American)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2-3 green onions or 2-3 shallots, peeled and sliced thin
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- Swiss Gruyere (NOT French) or Swiss cheese slices
Now, let’s talk about a few ingredient considerations. First off, the choice of onions is essential; Vidalia or sweet onions are recommended because they caramelize beautifully, giving your soup that rich, sweet flavor.
And while we’re on the subject of sweetness, don’t skimp on the dark brown sugar—it balances the savory broth perfectly.
As for the wine, a nice American red adds depth to the soup, but feel free to use what you have on hand. Just remember, if you wouldn’t drink it, don’t cook with it.
Finally, the cheese is where you can really indulge. While Gruyere brings a nutty flavor, any good melting Swiss will do the trick.
How to Make Nita’s American Onion Soup
Alright, let’s explore making Nita’s American Onion Soup. This dish is all about layering flavors, and trust me, it’s worth every minute spent in the kitchen. First things first, we need to get that cozy aroma wafting through your home. Start by frying up 4 slices of bacon in a large saucepan over medium-low heat until they’re crisp. I mean, who doesn’t love the sound of bacon sizzling?
Once they’re done, let them chill on some paper towels. Don’t toss that bacon fat just yet; you’ll want to save it for future adventures in flavor town.
Next, in the same pan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Feel free to take a moment to breathe in that buttery goodness because it’s about to get even better! Toss in 4-5 thinly sliced Vidalia onions (or sweet onions if that’s what you have) and sauté them. Stir them around frequently, letting them dance around the pan for about 10 minutes until they’re soft and starting to turn golden.
This is the part where you might want to grab a spoon and taste them to make sure they’re just right—no judgment here! After they’ve caramelized beautifully, add in 2 cloves of crushed garlic. Oh, the smell! That’s your cue to remove the pan from the heat and get ready for the magic to happen.
Now, let’s move to the big pot. In a large pot or Dutch Oven, combine your lovely caramelized onions with 5 cans of Campbell beef broth (or if you’re feeling fancy, 4 Knorr Beef Bouillon Cubes dissolved in 7 cups of hot water). Add 1 tablespoon of Kitchen Bouquet browning sauce and 1/4 cup of dark brown sugar.
This is where the soup starts to come together. Let it simmer gently for an hour, stirring occasionally. In the meantime, toast your 4 slices of hoagie rolls in the oven at a low 225 degrees Fahrenheit, just enough to dry them out for that perfect texture.
After the hour is up, it’s time to add 1 to 1 1/2 cups of red wine and 2 teaspoons of dried oregano to the pot, cooking for another 20 minutes. Don’t forget to season with fresh ground black pepper to taste.
Finally, we’re at the finish line. Grab your dried bread from the oven, crank up the heat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, and place those slices in four ovenproof soup bowls. Ladle the rich, flavorful soup over the bread, sprinkle with crumbled bacon, and cover with slices of Swiss Gruyere cheese.
Pop them in the oven for about 20 minutes until that cheese is all melty and bubbling. And just like that, you’ve created a comforting bowl of Nita’s American Onion Soup. Serve it up warm, and enjoy the fruits of your labor—because you totally deserve it.
Nita’s American Onion Soup Substitutions & Variations
While Nita’s American Onion Soup is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try to make it your own.
For a vegetarian version, swap the beef broth for vegetable broth and omit the bacon. You can also experiment with different cheeses like provolone or gouda if you’re feeling adventurous.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes. For a richer flavor, consider using a blend of red and white wines.
You can also mix in caramelized mushrooms or leeks for added depth. Don’t hesitate to play around with herbs; fresh thyme or rosemary can add a delightful twist.
Enjoy crafting your perfect bowl!
What to Serve with Nita’s American Onion Soup
To elevate your dining experience, consider what pairs well with Nita’s American Onion Soup.
I love serving it alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens balance the soup’s richness beautifully.
If you’re craving something heartier, a classic grilled cheese sandwich made with sharp cheddar complements the flavors perfectly. You can also opt for crusty hoagie rolls, which are fantastic for dipping into the soup.
For a touch of elegance, a glass of red wine, like a light Pinot Noir, enhances the meal.
And don’t forget dessert! A light lemon sorbet or a slice of apple tart can round off your meal nicely, leaving your guests satisfied and happy.
Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
When preparing Nita’s American Onion Soup, keep a few pointers in mind to secure the best results. First, choose sweet onions like Vidalia for that perfect balance of flavor.
Don’t rush the caramelization process; low and slow is the way to go for rich, golden onions. Also, using good-quality beef broth or bouillon will enhance the soup’s depth.
I recommend using dark brown sugar for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory notes beautifully. For the cheese, opt for Swiss Gruyere, as it melts perfectly and adds a delightful creaminess.
Finally, serve the soup immediately after baking to guarantee the cheese remains bubbly and enticing. Enjoy your cooking adventure!