Ingredients:
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of crusty bread (use a vegan-friendly option)
- 1 cup vegan cheese shreds (such as vegan mozzarella or Gruyère)
Instructions:
- Caramelize the Onions:
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown. This can take about 30-40 minutes.
- Deglaze with Balsamic Vinegar:
- Once the onions are caramelized, add the balsamic vinegar to the pot. Stir to combine and let it cook for a few more minutes to enhance the flavors.
- Add Broth and Seasonings:
- Pour in the vegetable broth and water, then add soy sauce (or tamari), dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Bread and Cheese:
- While the soup simmers, toast the slices of crusty bread until they are lightly golden and crisp. Set aside.
- Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a slice of toasted bread on top of each bowl of soup.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of vegan cheese shreds over the bread.
- Broil:
- Place the soup bowls under the broiler for a few minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Carefully remove the bowls from the broiler and serve the Vegan Easy French Onion Soup hot.
This Vegan Easy French Onion Soup is a warm and comforting bowl of goodness that captures the essence of the classic dish in a plant-based form. Enjoy the rich flavors and savory satisfaction without any animal products.
