Smoked onion soup: a healthy & nutritious choice

Onion soup is a classic dish that is loved by many for its comforting flavors and warm, hearty nature. But did you know that onion soup can also be a healthy and nutritious choice? In this article, we will explore the benefits of smoked onion soup and how it can contribute to your overall well-being.

Why is onion soup good for you?

Onions, as part of the Allium family, are packed with nutrients that offer numerous health benefits. One of the key compounds found in onions is Quercetin, which is a powerful anti-inflammatory. Consuming onions regularly can help reduce inflammation in the body and contribute to a healthier immune system.

In addition, if you make your onion soup with a homemade bone broth, you can further enhance its nutritional value. Bone broth is rich in collagen, which is beneficial for joint and skin health. It also serves as an immune booster, making your smoked onion soup a perfect choice for staying healthy.

For those following a vegan or vegetarian diet, using a vegetable broth as a base for your onion soup is a great option. However, ensure that the onions are caramelized properly to bring out their depth of flavor.

Making smoked onion soup

To make a delicious and nutritious smoked onion soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 10 medium white onions or 6 large Spanish onions, finely sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 4 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp butter combined for frying
• 1 tsp Himalayan or fine sea salt
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard plus more for cheese toasts
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1-litre stock (beef or vegetable, fresh or made from stock cubes)
• 4 sprigs of thyme, preferably fresh otherwise 1 tbsp dried thyme
• 50g Emmental/Gruyere/Parmesan cheese, grated
• 4 thin slices (stale) whole grain bread (optional)

Here's how to prepare your smoked onion soup:

1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil and butter mixture over medium/low heat.
2. Sauté the onions for 20 minutes until they start to soften, then add the garlic, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Reduce the heat to the lowest setting and cook the onions for another 15-20 minutes until they are soft and golden caramel in color.
4. Add the mustard, balsamic vinegar, and stock to the onions. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Remove the bay leaves and thyme stalks before serving.

For the cheese toasts, toast one side of the bread until golden, then spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the other side and top with grated cheese. Grill for a minute or so until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.

Variations to enhance your smoked onion soup

If you want to add more depth and flavor to your smoked onion soup, consider trying these variations:

• Add a cinnamon stick, star anise, and nutmeg to your broth for a spiced version.
• Include 3 tbsp of pearl barley for a fiber-rich meal.
• For a decadent twist, add shitake mushrooms to your stock.

Is onion soup good for weight loss?

Onions are a great source of soluble fiber, making them an excellent prebiotic for promoting a healthy gut. Optimal gut health is crucial for weight loss, and incorporating onion soup into your weight management program can provide the necessary nutrients to support your goals.

Smoked onion soup is not only a delicious and comforting dish but also a healthy and nutritious choice. Packed with the benefits of onions and the option to use homemade bone broth or vegetable broth, this soup is a great addition to any diet. Try making your own smoked onion soup and enjoy the flavorful and healthful benefits it has to offer.

If you want to know other articles similar to Smoked onion soup: a healthy & nutritious choice you can visit the Recipes category.