Description: Irish Onion Soup offers a delightful twist on the classic French onion soup, infusing it with the rich flavors of Ireland. Caramelized onions, cooked in creamy Irish butter and Guinness stout, are simmered in a flavorful beef broth, creating a hearty and satisfying dish. Topped with toasted slices of Irish soda bread and melted Irish cheddar cheese, this soup is the epitome of comfort and indulgence.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 tablespoons Irish butter
- 1 cup Guinness stout
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices Irish soda bread
- 1 cup grated Irish cheddar cheese
- Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the Irish butter over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 45-50 minutes, or until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown.
Pour in the Guinness stout and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
2. Simmer the Soup:
Add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to the pot, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 30-40 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the soup to thicken slightly. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
3. Toast the Soda Bread:
While the soup is simmering, preheat the oven to broil. Place the slices of Irish soda bread on a baking sheet and toast them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
4. Assemble and Serve:
Ladle the hot Irish onion soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a slice of toasted Irish soda bread on top of each bowl of soup.
Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Irish cheddar cheese over the toasted soda bread slices.
Place the bowls of soup under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired, and serve hot, accompanied by additional slices of toasted Irish soda bread.
Note: You can customize this Irish Onion Soup recipe by adding a splash of Irish whiskey for extra depth of flavor, or by garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or chives. Enjoy the comforting and indulgent flavors of Ireland in every spoonful of this delicious soup!
