French onion beef rib soup

 

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 2 lbs beef short ribs: Bone-in for maximum flavor.
• 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced: The star of French onion soup!
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: For caramelizing the onions.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: To sear the short ribs.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Adds depth to the broth.
• 6 cups beef broth: Use high-quality broth for the best flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the savory notes.
• 1 bay leaf: For a subtle herbal aroma.
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves: Or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme.

• Salt and pepper, to taste: To season.

For Topping:

• 6 slices of baguette or crusty bread: Toasted.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully over the soup.

How to Make French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup

Step 1: Sear the Beef Short Ribs

Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
1. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
2. Sear them on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove the short ribs from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same pot.
1. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 25-30 minutes until golden and caramelized.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Soup

Return short ribs to the pot along with beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, and thyme.
1. Bring to a simmer then reduce heat to low and cover.
2. Simmer for 2-3 hours until short ribs are tender and falling off the bone.
3. Remove short ribs from pot; shred meat, discard bones, then return meat to pot.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

Preheat your broiler.
1. Ladle soup into oven-safe bowls.
2. Place a slice of toasted baguette on top of each bowl and sprinkle generously with shredded Gruyère cheese.
3. Place bowls under broiler for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.