French onion soup is a classic dish known for its rich, savory depth and the delightful blend of caramelized onions, beef broth, and a bubbling cheese topping. But did you know that you can preserve this delicious soup in jars for a cozy meal anytime? In this article, we’ll explore the art of canning French onion soup, ensuring you can savor its warmth even in the coldest months.
Why Can French Onion Soup?
Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore the benefits of canning this delectable dish:
- Convenience: Having jars of French onion soup ready to go means less cooking during busy weeknights.
- Flavor Development: Canned soups often taste even better after sitting for a while, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Culinary Adventure: Experimenting with canning offers a fun kitchen project that hones your skills and expands your cooking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Soup:
- 2 lbs yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth (homemade or low-sodium store-bought)
- 1 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
- 2 teaspoons sugar (to aid caramelization)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For Canning:
- Canning jars (16 oz wide-mouth preferred)
- Canning lids and rings
- A large pot for boiling the soup
- A canning pot with a rack or a pressure canner
Step-by-Step Preparation: Making French Onion Soup
1. Caramelize the Onions
The heart of any great French onion soup lies in its onions. In a large pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sprinkle them with sugar. Stir frequently, cooking for about 30-40 minutes until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. This step is crucial, as it builds the deep, sweet flavor.
2. Deglaze the Pot
Once your onions are caramelized, pour in the white wine. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – these add incredible flavor. Allow the wine to reduce for about 5 minutes.
3. Build the Soup
Add the beef broth, salt, pepper, and thyme. Let the soup simmer gently for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Canning Your Soup
4. Prepare Your Jars
While the soup simmers, wash your canning jars in hot, soapy water, or run them through the dishwasher. Keep the jars warm in the oven at low heat.
5. Fill the Jars
Carefully ladle the hot soup into the warm jars, leaving about 1-inch headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to ensure a good seal.
6. Seal and Process
Place the canning lids on the jars, and screw on the rings until they are fingertip-tight. Process your jars in a water bath for 40 minutes (adjusting for altitude). If using a pressure canner, follow your model's guidelines for soup canning.
7. Cool and Store
Once processed, remove the jars from the canner and allow them to cool completely on a clean kitchen towel. After 24 hours, check the seals and store any unsealed jars in the refrigerator.
Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Your Canned French Onion Soup
While the soup is delicious straight from the jar, why not elevate it further when serving? Here are a few ideas:
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Classic French Onion Toast: Ladle the soup into bowls, top with toasted baguette slices, and a generous sprinkle of Gruyère cheese. Broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Herbed Croutons: Make homemade croutons from stale bread, seasoned with herbs. They add a delightful crunch to each bite.
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Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley can brighten the flavors before serving.
Fun Fact: The History of French Onion Soup
Did you know that French onion soup dates back to Roman times? Originally a humble dish, it gained popularity in France in the 18th century. Traditionally, it was a peasant dish made with the simplest ingredients. Today, it stands as a testament to how humble ingredients can transform into a gourmet experience.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Canning Adventure
Canning French onion soup is not just a method of preservation; it’s a way to connect with tradition, enhance your cooking skills, and ensure that you have a taste of France at your fingertips year-round. Gather your ingredients, invite friends to join the canning process, and create a batch of this comforting soup to enjoy whenever the mood strikes!
Now, roll up your sleeves and embark on this culinary adventure. Happy canning!
