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French Onion Soup Rice
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French Onion Soup Rice

This delightful dish combines the rich, caramelized flavors of French onion soup with tender, fluffy rice. A perfect side or standalone comfort dish, it delivers an earthy, cheesy, and savory experience reminiscent of the beloved classic soup.
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine French-inspired
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 320kcal
Cost $10–12

Equipment

  • Medium-sized skillet or saucepan (with a lid)
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp Butter Unsalted, for caramelizing onions
  • 1 tbsp Olive oil Helps prevent butter from burning
  • 2 large Yellow onions Thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp Sugar Optional, for enhancing caramelization
  • 1 cup Long-grain white rice Basmati or jasmine preferred
  • 2 cups Beef broth Can substitute with vegetable broth
  • 1 cup Water For added liquid
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Adds depth of flavor
  • 1/4 tsp Black pepper Adjust to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Salt Adjust to taste
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese Shredded, for garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley Chopped, optional garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

  • In a medium skillet or saucepan, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring frequently, for 10–15 minutes until the onions soften and turn golden brown.
  • For deeper caramelization, add sugar and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Toast the Rice

  • Add the uncooked rice to the skillet with the caramelized onions. Stir well to coat the rice in the onion mixture.
  • Cook for 2–3 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb some of the buttery flavors.

Step 3: Add Liquid and Simmer

  • Stir in the beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and salt.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
  • Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

  • Remove the skillet from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes to steam.
  • Fluff the rice with a fork, then top with shredded Gruyère cheese. Cover again for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts.
  • Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Notes

  • Substitutions:
    • Swap Gruyère for Swiss or mozzarella cheese if preferred.
    • Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor, but adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
    • Replace Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce for a vegetarian option.
  • Tips for Perfect Onions:
    • Slice onions uniformly to ensure even caramelization.
    • Stir frequently but not constantly to allow for proper browning.
  • Make It a Meal:
    • Add cooked chicken or mushrooms to make this dish heartier.
    • Serve alongside a simple green salad for a balanced meal.