Introduction
Soupe à l’oignon et gnocchis gratinée is a delightful fusion of classic French onion soup and comforting gnocchi. This dish brings together the rich flavors of caramelized onions, savory broth, and tender gnocchi, all topped with a generous layer of gooey melted cheese. It is perfect for cozy dinners and can be prepared quickly, making it a favorite for many home cooks.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Onions – 2 large, thinly sliced
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Vegetable or chicken broth – 4 cups
Gnocchi – 400 grams
Grated cheese (such as Gruyère or mozzarella) – 1 cup
Salt and pepper – to taste
Fresh thyme or parsley – for garnish
Prep Time
The preparation time for this dish is approximately 10 minutes. This includes slicing the onions and getting the ingredients ready for cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for the soup is around 25 minutes. Therefore, the total time for preparing the soupe à l’oignon et gnocchis gratinée is about 35 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it a great option for families or gatherings.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Onions
Slice the onions thinly. Heat a tablespoon of butter in a pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Sauté the onions until they become soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.
Add Broth
Once the onions are softened, pour in the beef or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Cook the Gnocchi
Add the gnocchi to the pot with the simmering broth and onions. Cook according to the package instructions, typically for about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
Prepare for Gratin
Preheat your oven to 200°C (around 400°F). In a separate bowl, mix grated cheese with a little bit of pepper. Set aside.
Assemble the Soup
Once the gnocchi are cooked, ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a generous amount of the cheese mixture.
Gratinate the Soup
Place the bowls on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Put them in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve the Soup
Carefully remove the bowls from the oven. Let them cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy the gratinated onion soup with gnocchi hot.
Notes
Onion Selection
For the best flavor, use yellow or sweet onions. They caramelize well and add sweetness to the soup.
Gnocchi Tips
Fresh or packaged gnocchi works well for this recipe. Ensure they are cooked according to package directions for the best texture.
Cheese Options
Gruyère or Swiss cheese works great for gratinating, but you can use any cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella or provolone.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing the soup with a side salad or crusty bread can enhance the meal experience.
Storage Advice
This soup can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days, but it’s best to add the cheese topping just before baking if you plan to reheat it.
Cook techniques
Caramelizing onions
Caramelizing onions involves slowly cooking them over low to medium heat, allowing the natural sugars to develop and turn a deep brown color. This technique adds sweetness and depth to dishes.
Cooking gnocchi
To cook gnocchi, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain.
Making soup
Starting with sautéing aromatics such as onions, garlic, or herbs in a bit of oil or butter creates a flavorful base for soups. Follow with liquid such as broth and desired ingredients for a complete dish.
Gratin topping
Creating a gratin topping involves layering cheese or breadcrumbs on the dish and baking until golden and bubbly. This technique adds texture and enhances flavors.
FAQ
How do I know when the onions are properly caramelized?
The onions should be a deep golden brown color and have a rich, sweet flavor. This process typically takes around 20-30 minutes over low heat.
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, store-bought gnocchi can be used for convenience, and they cook just as well in soups or other dishes.
What type of broth works best for soup?
Vegetable, chicken, or beef broth can be used depending on the desired flavor profile. Homemade broth is ideal, but store-bought works too.
How do I prevent my gratin from becoming too dry?
Ensure there is enough liquid in the dish before adding the topping and consider drizzling a bit of broth or cream on top before baking.
Conclusion
Enjoying a comforting bowl of onion soup with gnocchi is a delightful way to warm up. This gratinée version elevates the dish with a crispy topping that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the soup. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering with friends and family.
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