French onion soup, a culinary masterpiece, often evokes images of elegant bistros and comforting winter nights. This classic dish, with its rich, caramelized onions and deeply flavorful broth, is a true testament to French gastronomy. But what if we could elevate this beloved soup to new heights of comfort and approachability? Introducing French Onion Soup Pastina – a delightful twist on the traditional recipe, incorporating tiny, delicate pastina pasta for a satisfyingly hearty and surprisingly quick meal. The subtle texture of the pastina complements the sweetness of the onions and the depth of the broth perfectly.
This adaptation retains the soul of the original French onion soup while adding a touch of playful innovation. We'll simplify the process, ensuring a delicious result without the lengthy caramelization often associated with the classic version. Ready to experience the magic of French Onion Soup Pastina? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step guide below.
Tools Needed
- Pan
Ingredients
- Onions
- Garlic: a couple cloves
- Fresh Thyme: a pinch
- Balsamic Vinegar: a little bit
- White Wine: a touch
- Chicken or Beef Broth
- Pastina
- Butter
- Parmesan Cheese
- Gruyere Cheese
- Salt
- Black Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Caramelize Onions and Build Flavor Base
- Caramelize the onions. This takes about an hour. Add splashes of water to prevent burning.
- Once caramelized, grate in garlic. Add fresh thyme and balsamic vinegar.
- Deglaze the pan with white wine, scraping up brown bits.
Step 2. Cook the Pastina
- Add pastina and toast for a couple of minutes.
- Pour in broth (chicken or beef), season with salt and butter. Bring to a gentle boil and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3. Finish and Serve
- Once pastina is tender, stir in butter, grated parmesan and gruyere. Season with salt and pepper.
Read more: Italian Zucchini Soup with Parmesan Croutons: A Delicious Recipe
Tips
- Caramelizing the onions takes patience, but it's worth it!
Nutrition
- Calories: 400-500
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 15-20g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of pastina?
While pastina works best due to its small size and quick cooking time, you can experiment with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or tiny shells. Just be sure to adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. How can I make this soup vegetarian/vegan?
Omit the beef broth and use a rich vegetable broth instead. For a vegan version, ensure your broth and any other added ingredients are also vegan-friendly.
This simplified French Onion Soup Pastina recipe delivers all the comforting flavors of the classic dish, but with a fraction of the effort. The addition of pastina adds a delightful textural element and makes for a heartier, more satisfying meal. Enjoy this comforting bistro classic, perfect for a cozy night in or a simple yet elegant weeknight dinner.