French onion soup is a beloved classic. Its rich, savory flavors come from caramelized onions cooked in a hearty broth. Typically, the soup is topped with a slice of crusty bread and melted Gruyère cheese. Although French onion soup can certainly stand alone as a meal, knowing what to order with French onion soup can truly enhance your dining experience. Therefore, in this article, we’ll explore various options that pair well with this classic dish.
Why French Onion Soup is a Standalone Dish
French onion soup is loved for its deep, comforting flavors. The slow-cooked onions bring a natural sweetness that balances the savory broth. Topped with melted Gruyère cheese and crispy bread, the soup is both filling and satisfying. Indeed, it’s often thought of as a complete meal. However, if you’re curious about what to order with French onion soup, there are many excellent options that can take your meal to the next level.
The Rich History of French Onion Soup
French onion soup has been enjoyed for hundreds of years. It’s a dish loved in both fine dining restaurants and home kitchens. The caramelized onions, which develop a rich, sweet flavor, are the heart of this dish. They mix with the broth to create a tasty balance that’s hard to resist. Additionally, the cheese and bread add a pleasant crunch and creaminess, making each spoonful a rich experience. While the soup can stand alone, knowing what to order with French onion soup can turn it into a memorable dining experience.
Meat Pairings: Enhancing the Savory Experience
When considering what to order with French onion soup, meat dishes are a natural choice. The savory depth of the soup pairs well with different types of meat. These options not only add protein but also richness to your meal.
Best Meat Options to Pair with French Onion Soup
- Steak or Prime Rib: Steak or prime rib is a top choice when deciding what to order with French onion soup. The rich flavors of a well-cooked steak match well with the savory notes of the soup. The beefy taste mirrors the broth, creating a well-rounded dining experience. Moreover, a juicy steak, with a slight char, enhances the sweet caramelized onions. Additionally, the Gruyère cheese adds a creamy touch, further enriching the dish.
- Roast Chicken: Roast chicken is another great choice for what to order with French onion soup. A golden roast chicken with crispy skin offers a lighter, yet flavorful, pairing. The mild taste of the chicken allows the soup’s flavors to shine. Furthermore, the crispy skin adds a nice texture contrast to the smooth, creamy soup, making the combination even more enjoyable.
- Lamb Chops: Lamb chops bring a refined touch to the meal. Their tender, flavorful meat adds a rich complement to the soup. Lamb’s slightly sweet, earthy flavor pairs well with the deep notes of French onion soup. When perfectly cooked, lamb chops offer a juicy bite that enhances the soup’s complexity. This pairing is perfect for those looking for a touch of elegance in their meal.
- Duck: Duck is a rich option when choosing what to order with French onion soup. The fatty meat of duck pairs well with the caramelized onions and melted cheese. Duck’s bold flavor stands up to the soup’s intensity. Moreover, the crispy skin adds a satisfying crunch, making it an excellent choice for a luxurious meal.
Seafood Pairings: Light and Delicate Complements
If you prefer seafood, several choices pair wonderfully with French onion soup. The light, delicate flavors of seafood offer a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory soup. These options create a balanced and enjoyable meal.
Ideal Seafood Choices for French Onion Soup
- Grilled Salmon: Grilled salmon is one of the best options for what to order with French onion soup. The rich, fatty texture of salmon complements the flavors of the soup. Furthermore, its slightly smoky flavor from the grill adds complexity. In addition, grilled salmon provides healthy omega-3 fatty acids, making this pairing both tasty and nutritious.
- Lobster or Crab: Lobster or crab adds an elegant touch to the meal. The sweet, tender meat of lobster or crab contrasts beautifully with the savory depth of French onion soup. Additionally, lobster’s tender meat and subtle sweetness offer a luxurious contrast. Moreover, crab’s slightly salty flavor enhances the overall taste experience. Serving lobster or crab with French onion soup is a great way to impress guests or treat yourself.
- Scallops: Scallops are another great seafood option for what to order with French onion soup. Sweet, tender scallops provide a lovely contrast to the soup’s savory depth. When seared to perfection, scallops develop a caramelized crust that pairs wonderfully with the soup. Furthermore, the sweetness of the scallops complements the caramelized onions. Their delicate texture offers a light, refreshing contrast.
Vegetarian and Vegan Pairings
For those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, there are still plenty of options when choosing what to order with French onion soup. These choices offer a variety of flavors and textures that complement the soup while keeping the meal plant-based.
Satisfying Plant-Based Options
- Mushroom Risotto: Mushroom risotto is a great choice for what to order with French onion soup. The earthy flavors of mushroom risotto enhance the savory notes in the soup. Furthermore, the creamy texture of risotto contrasts nicely with the crispy bread and melted cheese in the soup. Therefore, this pairing creates a comforting, yet sophisticated, vegetarian meal.
- Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables are a lighter option for what to order with French onion soup. Lightly charred vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant add a fresh contrast to the richness of the soup. The smoky flavor from the grill complements the deep, savory taste of the soup. Moreover, the crisp-tender texture of the vegetables adds a refreshing balance.
- Quinoa Salad: Quinoa salad with fresh herbs, lemon, and nuts offers a healthy balance. Quinoa adds substance to the meal, while lemon and herbs brighten the dish. Furthermore, nuts like almonds or walnuts add a satisfying crunch. This pairing is ideal for a light, yet satisfying, vegetarian meal.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed bell peppers are a heartier vegetarian option. They can be filled with a mix of rice, beans, and vegetables, creating a flavorful dish that pairs well with the savory soup. The natural sweetness of the bell peppers contrasts with the soup’s deep flavors. Furthermore, the stuffing provides a variety of textures that make the meal more interesting.
Side Dishes to Accompany French Onion Soup
In addition to the main courses, choosing the right side dishes can further enhance your French onion soup meal. Here are some great choices when thinking about what to order with French onion soup:
Best Sides to Serve with French Onion Soup
- Green Salad with Vinaigrette: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the soup. The acidity of the vinaigrette cleanses the palate, allowing you to enjoy the soup’s savory depth. Additionally, a simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing is a classic choice. You can also add ingredients like avocado, nuts, or cheese to make it more filling.
- Baguette or Artisan Bread: A crusty baguette or slice of artisan bread is a must-have. The bread soaks up the rich broth, adding texture and flavor to each bite. For an extra touch, serve the bread with a side of roasted garlic butter. This addition enhances the flavor and pairs perfectly with the soup.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of bold cheeses like Roquefort, Comté, and Brie adds richness to your meal. Pairing different cheeses with the soup allows for a delightful mix of flavors. Moreover, you can serve the cheese platter as a side dish or a starter, letting guests enjoy the cheeses before diving into the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes make a hearty side dish. The natural sweetness of the vegetables complements the savory soup. Additionally, the roasting process brings out rich, caramelized flavors. You can season the vegetables with herbs like rosemary or thyme to add an extra layer of flavor.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed mushrooms filled with a mix of breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs make a savory side. The earthy taste of the mushrooms pairs well with the savory soup. Furthermore, the stuffing adds a variety of textures, making the dish more interesting.
Dessert Options to Follow French Onion Soup
No meal is complete without dessert. After enjoying a savory dish like French onion soup, a well-chosen dessert provides the perfect finishing touch. Here are some classic French desserts that pair beautifully with the soup:
Classic French Desserts
- Tarte Tatin: This classic French dessert, made with caramelized apples and buttery pastry, is a fitting conclusion to a meal. The sweetness of the caramelized apples contrasts nicely with the savory notes of the soup. The flaky pastry adds a satisfying texture. Tarte Tatin not only tastes delicious but also looks impressive, making it a great choice for entertaining guests.
- Crème Brûlée: The creamy, smooth texture of crème brûlée, combined with its caramelized sugar crust, offers a nice contrast to the soup’s richness. The lightness of the custard balances the heavy flavors of the soup. Furthermore, the crunchy sugar topping adds a pleasant texture. Crème brûlée is both elegant and comforting, making it an ideal dessert.
Lighter and Fruity Dessert Choices
- Chocolate Mousse: A light, airy chocolate mousse is a perfect way to end your meal. It offers the savory sensations a sweet counterpoint. The rich chocolate flavor pairs well with the deep, caramelized notes of the soup. Additionally, the mousse’s light texture keeps the dessert from feeling too heavy. Moreover, chocolate mousse is versatile and can be flavored with ingredients like orange, mint, or coffee.
- Clafoutis: Clafoutis is a traditional French dessert made with a custard-like batter and fresh fruit. It’s a light, refreshing option that pairs well with French onion soup. The sweet, fruity flavor contrasts nicely with the savory soup. Additionally, the custard adds a creamy texture that complements the meal. Cherry clafoutis is common, but you can also make it with other fruits like berries, plums, or pears.
- Pots de Crème: Pots de crème are rich, creamy desserts similar to custard. They are flavored with chocolate, vanilla, or coffee and served in small pots or cups. The silky texture and strong flavor make them a luxurious choice for dessert. After a hearty meal, a small pot of this rich dessert is the perfect way to indulge.
Beverage Pairings: Non-Alcoholic Options
Choosing the right drink is key to enhancing your meal. Here are some non-alcoholic options to consider when deciding what to order with French onion soup:
Refreshing Herbal and Sparkling Drinks
- Herbal Teas: Herbal teas offer a wide range of flavors that pair well with the rich, savory taste of French onion soup. A light, floral tea like chamomile or a refreshing mint tea provides a soothing balance. Herbal teas are a great choice for those avoiding caffeine, making them ideal for a relaxing dinner.
- Sparkling Water: A glass of sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime cleanses your palate and refreshes your taste buds between bites. The bubbles add a lively texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup. For an added twist, try flavored sparkling water with hints of fruit like peach, berry, or cucumber.
Sweet and Spicy Non-Alcoholic Beverages
- Apple Cider: A warm or chilled glass of apple cider, depending on the season, adds a sweet and tangy note. The natural sweetness of the apples pairs well with the caramelized onions in the soup. The cider’s acidity cuts through the richness of the soup. Furthermore, apple cider is versatile and can be enjoyed warm with spices in the winter or chilled in the summer.
- Ginger Ale: Ginger ale’s spicy, slightly sweet flavor makes it a great pairing for French onion soup. The ginger’s warmth contrasts with the savory notes of the soup. The bubbles add a refreshing element to the meal. Ginger ale is also a good choice for those looking for a non-alcoholic drink that still feels festive.
- Iced Tea: Iced tea, whether sweetened or unsweetened, provides a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of French onion soup. The cool, crisp taste of iced tea cleanses the palate between bites. It’s a popular choice for summer meals. Additionally, you can experiment with flavored iced teas, like peach or raspberry, to add a fruity twist.
- Lemonade: Lemonade’s tart, tangy flavor pairs well with the savory, hearty notes of French onion soup. The acidity of the lemonade cuts through the richness of the soup. Its sweetness adds a nice contrast. Furthermore, lemonade is versatile and can be enjoyed year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What bread is best with French onion soup? A crusty baguette is ideal. It adds texture and soaks up the broth.
- Can French onion soup be a meal on its own? Yes, it’s often filling enough to stand alone, especially with bread and cheese.
- What cheese can be used besides Gruyère? Alternatives like Comté, Emmental, or Fontina work well.
- Is French onion soup always made with beef broth? Traditionally, yes, but vegetable or chicken broth can be used for a lighter version.
- What non-alcoholic drinks pair best with French onion soup? Herbal teas, sparkling water, and apple cider are excellent choices.
Conclusion
Knowing what to order with French onion soup can elevate your meal. Whether you choose meat, seafood, vegetarian options, or sides, these pairings will enhance the flavors of this classic dish. Therefore, enjoy experimenting with different combinations to find your perfect meal. Bon appétit!