French Onion Soup Rice Recipe

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Cook Time: 55 minutes

Transform an everyday side into a cheesy, show-stopping centerpiece with this delicious rice dish! This recipe combines the beloved flavors of classic French Onion Soup into the most comforting baked rice you'll ever taste. As Amanda Stanfield, one of our recipe testers, said: "Its creamy, super oniony (in the best way possible), and cheesy! The canned French onion soup paired with sherry vinegar adds depth of flavor without having to work for it a clever way to make a meal a thousand times better!"

Ingredients

• 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed French onion soup (such as Campbells)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 1/4 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices
• 3/4 cup shredded Gruyre cheese
• 1/2 cup pre-shredded low-moisture whole-milk mozzarella cheese
• Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

Directions

1. Gather all the ingredients before starting.
2. Preheat your oven to 425F (220C), placing the rack in the center position.
3. In a 10-inch oven-safe skillet, combine the French onion soup, beef broth, rice, and sherry vinegar. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
4. Evenly distribute the sliced butter over the rice mixture.
5. Cover the skillet with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
6. After 30 minutes, remove and discard the foil. Continue baking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and most of the liquid is absorbed.
7. Increase the oven temperature to broil, positioning the rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
8. Sprinkle the Gruyre and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the rice.
9. Broil for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown, and the rice crisps up around the edges of the skillet.
10. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	222
Total Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	9g
Cholesterol	44mg
Sodium	721mg
Total Carbohydrate	13g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	2g
Protein	9g
Calcium	230mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	303mg

Servings Per Recipe: 6

This unique twist on the classic French onion soup brings together the savory flavors of caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted cheese into a comforting rice bake. With Gruyre and mozzarella cheeses atop perfectly cooked rice, its a dish thats sure to delight any food lover.

History of French Onion Soup Rice

The origin of French onion soup dates back to ancient times, but it became popular in France during the 18th century, when it was a simple, affordable meal for the working class. Over time, this iconic soup evolved, and the addition of ingredients like cheese and bread made it a staple in French cuisine. The concept of French Onion Soup Rice is a more modern innovation, combining the depth of flavor found in French onion soup with the comforting texture of rice. Its a fusion of two beloved dishes into one hearty, cheesy creation.

Regional Variations

French Onion Soup Rice is not tied to a specific region in France; however, the soup itself is traditionally associated with Paris and the surrounding areas. In many regions of France, especially in the east and southeast, variations of the soup are served with different types of bread or cheese. This rice version, which incorporates beef broth and canned French onion soup, can be found in various parts of the United States, where its embraced as a quick and easy comfort food. Regional adaptations might include using different cheeses or adding proteins like chicken or sausage.

What Sets It Apart?

While French Onion Soup Rice shares the same base flavors as the traditional French onion soup, its a significant departure in terms of texture and presentation. Unlike the soup, which is typically served as a broth-based dish with melted cheese on top, this rice version takes on a baked form, where the rice soaks up all the savory flavors and becomes a solid dish, rather than a soup. The addition of cheese not only enhances the flavor but also creates a crispy, golden topping, making it an indulgent side dish or even a main course.

Where Is It Usually Served?

French Onion Soup Rice is often served as a side dish in casual dining settings, particularly in family-style meals or at barbecues and potlucks. Its also popular in more refined restaurants as a twist on the classic French onion soup, offering a comforting alternative to more traditional sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. It can be found in bistros or modern American restaurants, especially those that offer comfort food with a gourmet spin.

Interesting Facts About French Onion Soup Rice

• The use of sherry vinegar in this dish is a clever way to add acidity and balance the richness of the beef broth and cheese, similar to how vinegar might be used in traditional French onion soup recipes.
• Gruyre cheese, a key ingredient, is a Swiss cheese that originates from the Gruyre region of Switzerland. Its nutty and slightly salty flavor makes it the perfect complement to the sweetness of caramelized onions.
• The combination of French onion soup and rice can be traced back to a few creative chefs who sought to adapt the beloved soup into a heartier, more filling dish, perfect for those who want a one-dish meal.
• This recipe can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or gatherings, as the flavors continue to meld and deepen after resting.

FAQ about French Onion Soup Rice Recipe

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