Petit Trois's French Onion Soup

Rate this recipe
Be the first to rate
By Published

French onion soup is a classic dish that warms the soul with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients.

Jump to recipePin it
Petit Trois's French Onion Soup
Servings
4

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°.

  2. Place a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet and arrange the bones on top.

  3. Roast the bones undisturbed until they turn deep golden brown, which should take about 40-50 minutes.

  4. Transfer the roasted bones to a large pot and add 5 qt. of water.

  5. Bring the water to a simmer and use a fine-mesh sieve to skim off any foam or gray bits from the surface.

  6. Remove the pot from heat.

  7. In another large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat.

  8. Add onions, celery, and carrots to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to caramelize, which should take around 10-15 minutes.

  9. Add tomato paste to the pot and continue cooking, stirring often, until the paste slightly darkens in color, which should take about 6-8 minutes.

  10. Add the bones along with the liquid, garlic, thyme, and bay leaf to the pot with the vegetables.

  11. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low.

  12. Simmer the mixture at a bare simmer, adding water as needed to maintain the level of liquid, until the stock becomes flavorful, which should take approximately 2 hours.

  13. Strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl.

  14. Strain the stock again into another large bowl

About this recipe

French onion soup is a classic dish that warms the soul with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. One place that is renowned for its French onion soup is Petit Trois, a cozy bistro nestled in the heart of Los Angeles. In this article, we will explore the secret behind Petit Trois's famous French onion soup and why it has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

The Art of Caramelization

At the heart of Petit Trois's French onion soup lies the art of caramelization. The sweet aroma that fills the air when onions are slowly cooked to a rich golden brown is simply irresistible. This process not only enhances the flavor of the onions but also gives the soup its characteristic deep, complex taste.

Think of caramelization as a culinary dance. The onions are like dancers, gracefully moving and transforming as they release their natural sugars. And just like a well-choreographed performance, the result is a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds.

A Symphony of Ingredients

While caramelized onions are undoubtedly the star of the show, Petit Trois's French onion soup also features a supporting cast of ingredients that elevate the dish to new heights. Gruyère cheese, with its nutty and slightly sweet flavor, adds a luxurious touch as it melts atop the soup, forming a golden crust that is both indulgent and satisfying.

But what really sets Petit Trois's French onion soup apart is the broth. Made from a combination of beef and chicken stocks, this savory elixir is simmered for hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a robust base for the soup. It's like a harmonious blend of instruments coming together to create a symphony of taste.

A Toast to Tradition

Tradition is at the core of Petit Trois's French onion soup. The soup is served in a classic crock, with a toasted baguette slice floating on top, soaking up the flavors of the soup. This rustic presentation pays homage to the time-honored French culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations.

As you take your first spoonful of Petit Trois's French onion soup, you can't help but feel a connection to the past. It's like savoring a piece of history, with each bite transporting you to the quaint streets of Paris or the charming countryside of Provence.

In Conclusion

Petit Trois's French onion soup is a culinary masterpiece that combines the art of caramelization, a symphony of ingredients, and a toast to tradition. Whether enjoyed at the bistro or recreated in your own kitchen, this iconic dish is sure to delight your taste buds and transport you to the heart of France.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I make Petit Trois's French onion soup at home?

Absolutely! While the exact recipe may be a closely guarded secret, you can still recreate the flavors of Petit Trois's French onion soup in your own kitchen. Just remember to give the onions plenty of time to caramelize and use a combination of beef and chicken stocks for a rich broth.

. Can I use a different type of cheese?

While Gruyère cheese is the traditional choice for French onion soup, you can certainly experiment with other cheeses. Emmental, Comté, or even a sharp cheddar can all add their own unique twist to the dish.

. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the beef and chicken stocks for vegetable stock and omit the cheese. You'll still get the wonderful flavors of caramelized onions and a savory broth.

. What is the best type of onion to use?

Yellow onions are the most commonly used onions in French onion soup. They have a mild, sweet flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients. However, you can also experiment with red onions or shallots for a slightly different taste.

. Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, you can freeze Petit Trois's French onion soup for later enjoyment. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months.

. Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! In fact, French onion soup tastes even better when made in advance. The flavors have time to develop and meld together, resulting in a more robust and flavorful dish.

. Can I add other ingredients to the soup?

While traditional French onion soup is simple and relies on the flavors of the onions, broth, and cheese, you can certainly add your own personal touch. Some popular additions include thyme, bay leaves, or a splash of red wine for extra depth of flavor.

. Can I serve this soup as a main course?

Absolutely! French onion soup can be a satisfying and filling meal on its own, especially when served with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad. It's the perfect dish for a cozy night in or a special occasion.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

More soups

See all →