This French Onion Toast or Bruschetta is a perfect fusion of two classic comfort foods; French onion soup and bruschetta. Combining the savory richness of caramelized onions that is luxuriously enveloped with creamy nutty gruyere on a perfectly toasted rustic French baguette. A simple yet elevated toast!
INSPIRATION FOR FRENCH ONION TOAST
This French Onion Toast draws its inspiration from the cozy tradition of a warm bowl of French onion soup. The rich and savory flavors of caramelized onions, along with melted gruyere cheese has always been an inspiration for many recipe adaptations. We capture the infusion of sweet umami-rich flavor of the caramelized onions and the creamy nuttiness of Gruyere on this perfectly toasted baguette.
French Onion toast is simple to make and versatile that can be enjoyed on a variety of occasions. It’s a perfect accompaniment to any warm soup on a chilly night, or as an appetizer on your Thanksgiving table, or elevated enough to impress guests at a dinner party, and perfect to satisfy those comfort food cravings anytime.
INGREDIENTS NEEDED TO MAKE FRENCH ONION TOAST
- Onions: Yellow or red onions are my preferred choice for their mild, sweet flavor. Onions form the base of the caramelized goodness in this toast.
- Gruyere Cheese: This classic French cheese is perfect on our onion toast and adds a distinct nutty and slightly sweet flavor. Its melting quality makes it perfect for creating a rich cheese toast.
- Ground Nutmeg: A pinch of ground nutmeg offers a subtle warm and nutty note to the cheese.
- Dried Thyme: Dried or fresh thyme lends a herby aroma and freshness to both the cheese and the sweet caramelized onions.
- Dry White Wine: to deglaze the caramelized onions, I like a little splash of dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
- Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard provides a hint of tangy earthy flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish
- Fat: is used to sauté the onions, unsalted butter enriches, gives it a luxurious and velvety finish. Olive Oil: to achieve that deep, rich caramelized onion.
- Worcestershire Sauce: a few drops of this optional sauce adds a subtle umami and tangy note giving the caramelized onions & cheese an extra layer of flavor.
- Salt: to season and bring out the flavors of the ingredients.
- Cracked Black Pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to your toast.
French Onion Toast
Ingredients
- 2-3 medium onions, thinly sliced about 1 lb
- 1 cup grated gruyere cheese+ dijon mustard
- ½ tsp dried thyme leaves
- ¼ cup dry white wine optional
- 2 tbsp olive oil more for drizzling
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- ¼ tsp grated nutmeg
- 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce optional
- sea salt
- black pepper
Instructions
Caramelized Onions
- Heat 2 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add the thinly sliced onions.
- Cook the onions for 5-7 minutes, stirring often until they turn translucent. Add ½ teaspoon of salt, black pepper, nutmeg, thyme leaves, Worcestershire Sauce(optional) Then reduce the heat to medium-low. Continue to cook, stirring every 5-10 minutes, until the onions reach your desired level of caramelization. Deeply caramelized onions can take an additional 30-40 minutes.
- Once the onions are caramelized, add 2 tablespoon of dry white wine to deglaze the pan. Remove the onions from the pan and reserve them to the side.
Toasting
- Preheat the oven to 375℉ while the onions caramelize.
- Slice the baguette and drizzle a thin stream of olive oil evenly. Toast the bread in a preheated oven for 5-7 minutes just until they’re golden around the edges.
- Once the toast are put of the oven spoon the toast with caramelized onion evenly top them with grated gruyere cheese and place it back in the oven for another 3-5 minutes just until the cheese melts. Take it out of the oven and serve.
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