What To Know
- The addition of M&M’s introduces a playful element of sweetness that balances the savory notes of the broth and caramelized onions.
- The chocolate, when melted, creates a decadent sauce that coats the bread and cheese, adding a layer of richness and complexity to the dish.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or a sprinkle of paprika for a touch of color.
French onion soup, a classic comfort food, is known for its rich, savory broth, caramelized onions, and gooey Gruyère cheese topping. But what happens when you add a touch of M&M’s to the mix? This blog post will guide you through the process of crafting a unique and delicious twist on this beloved dish: how to cook M&M French onion soup.
The Sweet and Savory Symphony: Why M&M’s?
You might be wondering, “Why M&M’s?” The answer lies in the unexpected harmony they bring to the classic French onion soup. The addition of M&M’s introduces a playful element of sweetness that balances the savory notes of the broth and caramelized onions. The chocolate, when melted, creates a decadent sauce that coats the bread and cheese, adding a layer of richness and complexity to the dish.
Gathering Your Ingredients: A Culinary Checklist
Before embarking on your M&M French onion soup adventure, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients:
- Onions: Choose yellow or white onions for their ability to caramelize beautifully.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred for its pure flavor.
- Beef broth: Opt for a low-sodium broth for better control over the saltiness of the soup.
- Dry red wine: A Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot will complement the flavors of the soup.
- Fresh thyme: A sprig of thyme adds a subtle herbal aroma.
- Bay leaf: A bay leaf enhances the depth of flavor in the broth.
- Salt and pepper: Seasoning to taste.
- French bread: Crusty bread for toasting and serving.
- Gruyère cheese: Shredded Gruyère cheese is essential for the classic topping.
- M&M’s: Choose your favorite M&M’s colors and flavors for a personalized touch.
The Art of Caramelizing Onions: A Foundation of Flavor
The foundation of a great French onion soup is the caramelized onions. This step requires patience and attention, but the results are worth it.
1. Slice and Sweat: Thinly slice the onions and melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they soften and become translucent.
2. Patience and Persistence: Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for about 30-45 minutes. The onions should turn a deep golden brown.
3. Deglazing the Pot: Once caramelized, add the red wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits, which add flavor. Simmer for a few minutes to reduce the wine slightly.
Building the Broth: A Symphony of Flavors
Now it’s time to create the rich and flavorful broth that will bring your M&M French onion soup to life.
1. Adding the Broth: Pour in the beef broth, add the thyme sprig and bay leaf, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Seasoning with Care: Season the broth with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the Gruyère cheese will add saltiness, so adjust accordingly.
The M&M Twist: A Touch of Sweetness
The next step is where your M&M French onion soup truly becomes unique.
1. Adding the M&M’s: About 10 minutes before serving, add your chosen M&M’s to the soup. The heat will melt the chocolate, creating a rich and decadent sauce that coats the bread and cheese.
2. Stir Gently: Stir the soup gently to distribute the melted chocolate throughout the broth. Avoid over-stirring, as this could break down the M&M’s too much.
Serving Your M&M French Onion Soup: A Culinary Masterpiece
1. Toasting the Bread: Toast slices of French bread until golden brown.
2. Assembling the Soup: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top with a generous amount of shredded Gruyère cheese and place a toasted bread slice on top.
3. Melting the Cheese: Broil the bowls for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or a sprinkle of paprika for a touch of color. Serve your M&M French onion soup piping hot and enjoy the sweet and savory symphony of flavors.
Beyond the Basics: Variations and Twists
This recipe is a starting point for your culinary creativity. Experiment with different M&M flavors, such as peanut butter, caramel, or crispy. You can also add other ingredients to the soup, such as a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
Your M&M French Onion Soup Journey: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Crafting your own M&M French onion soup is an adventure in culinary creativity. By embracing the unexpected sweetness of M&M’s, you can transform this classic dish into a unique and unforgettable experience. So gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and enjoy the journey of creating your own M&M French onion soup masterpiece.
What You Need to Learn
1. Can I use other types of chocolate instead of M&M’s?
Yes, you can use other types of chocolate, such as semi-sweet chocolate chips or even chocolate bars. However, M&M’s are ideal because they melt evenly and add a playful touch.
2. How long can I keep the soup in the refrigerator?
You can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to reheat it gently on the stovetop, as microwaving can make the cheese rubbery.
3. Can I make the soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Just omit the M&M’s and the cheese until you’re ready to serve. Add the M&M’s and cheese during the final 10 minutes of reheating.
4. What are some other toppings I can use?
Besides Gruyère cheese, you can also use other cheeses like Swiss, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses. You can also add chopped green onions, croutons, or even a sprinkle of dried herbs for extra flavor and texture.
