Sourdough Cheese & Onion Soup
This comforting Sourdough Cheese & Onion Soup is the perfect blend of rich, caramelised onions, hearty beef stock, and melted Gruyère cheese, all topped with crispy sourdough bread. Ideal for a cosy night in, this recipe brings together the classic flavours of French onion soup with a sourdough twist. Follow these simple steps to create a warming bowl of goodness that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 2 large slices of sourdough bread, cut into wide strips
- 100g butter
- 4 large brown onions
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- A slug of olive oil
- 1 tbsp plain flour
- 60ml (1/4 cup) sherry or white wine
- 900ml beef stock
- 1 block of Gruyère cheese, grated
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt, to taste
Method
- Prepare the Onions: Cut your onions in half and then slice them into thin strips.
- Cook the Onions: Heat a large pot on low heat and add the butter. Add the onions and mix until they are coated in butter. Add the granulated sugar and a slug of olive oil. Cook on low heat for one hour, stirring occasionally, until the onions are brown and caramelised.
- Make the Soup Base: Once the onions are caramelised, add the flour and mix until fully incorporated. Pour in the sherry or white wine, followed by the beef stock. Add the thyme and salt to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
- Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°C, using the grill function.
- Assemble the Soup: Once the soup has finished simmering, layer the sourdough bread strips on top of the soup. Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese all over the bread inside the pot.
- Grill the Topping: Place the pot on the highest shelf inside your oven and grill for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is crispy.
- Serve: Use a ladle to separate the chunks of bread and soup, and serve in individual bowls.
Enjoy your Sourdough Cheese & Onion Soup with a side of your favourite salad or a glass of white wine for a truly delightful meal.
Perfect Bread & Cheese Platter
Creating the perfect bread and cheese platter is an art that combines various textures and flavours to delight the senses. Here’s a detailed guide to help you curate a balanced and visually appealing cheese board for your summer gatherings:
Bread Selection
Bread is a crucial element of any cheese board, serving as the vehicle for the cheese and other accompaniments. A seeded sourdough bread is an excellent choice because its nuttiness contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of many cheeses. However, variety is the spice of life, so consider including a mix of different types of bread. A crusty baguette provides a crunchy texture, while a ciabatta offers a softer alternative.
Crackers
In addition to bread, crackers add a delightful crunch and an extra layer of texture to your cheese board. Our sourdough rye crackers are a fantastic option, offering a unique flavour profile that pairs well with both soft and hard cheeses. Their tangy, slightly nutty taste enhances the overall experience and complements the other elements on the board.
Cheese Choices
When selecting cheeses, aim for a balance between soft and hard varieties to offer a range of textures and tastes. A creamy goat cheese or a rich brie provides a luscious, smooth option that pairs well with both sweet and savoury accompaniments. For a hard cheese, a cheddar or an aged gouda brings a robust flavour and a firm texture that contrasts nicely with the softer cheeses. You might also consider adding a stronger cheese, such as a blue cheese or a smoked cheese, to add an element of surprise and intrigue.
Chutney and Spreads
Adding chutney and spreads to your cheese board enhances the flavour experience. A fig or spiced plum chutney introduces a sweet and tangy component that complements the richness of the cheeses. A sweet onion marmalade could also be a good option. Spreads like artichoke dip, olive tapenade or sundried tomato spread provide a savoury, umami flavour that pairs well with both soft and hard cheeses. These spreads not only add flavour but also bring a different texture to the board, making each bite interesting.
Antipasto and Other Accompaniments
An antipasto misto, made up of a variety of cured meats can add substance and flavour to your platter. You could also include some nuts and olives, as the saltiness provides a delightful contrast to the creamy cheeses and sweet chutneys. Including these items ensures that there’s something for everyone and keeps the palate excited.
Fresh Fruit
Fruit is essential for adding colour, sweetness, and a refreshing element to your cheese board. Figs and grapes are classic choices that pair well with most cheeses. Berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, can also be a great addition, offering a burst of sweetness and a bright pop of colour. The natural sugars in the fruit complement the savoury and tangy flavours of the cheese, creating a harmonious balance.
Garnishes and Final Touches
Garnishes like fresh herbs can elevate the presentation of your cheese board. Basil, mint, or rosemary sprigs add a fresh, aromatic touch that enhances the visual appeal and provides a subtle hint of flavour. Placing herbs strategically around the board can also help to separate different sections and create a more organised, aesthetically pleasing layout.
Beverage Pairings
No cheese board is complete without a refreshing beverage to accompany it. A chilled glass of rosé is an ideal choice for summer, offering a light, fruity complement to the cheeses and accompaniments. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, a drink like Botivo, with its botanical flavours, pairs wonderfully with the variety of tastes on the board.
Assembling Your Platter
When assembling your cheese board, start by arranging the bread and crackers around the edges. Place the cheeses in different sections of the board, cutting a few slices or wedges to make it easy for guests to serve themselves. Next, add small bowls or jars of chutney and spreads near the cheeses for convenience. Scatter the antipasto mix and nuts around the board, filling in gaps. Arrange the fruit in clusters to add colour and visual interest. Finally, add the fresh herbs as garnishes to complete the look.
Tips for a Perfect Cheese Board
- Balance: Aim for a mix of textures and flavours—creamy and crunchy, sweet and savoury—to keep each bite interesting.
- Presentation: Use a large wooden board or a slate slab for a rustic, appealing look. Arrange items thoughtfully to create a beautiful display.
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new cheese varieties or seasonal fruits to keep the board fresh and exciting.
Enjoy crafting and sharing your perfect summer bread and cheese platter with friends and family, creating delightful memories along the way!
