Dive into the heart of Tuscany with a bowl of Carabaccia, a delightful Tuscan onion soup that promises to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds! This rustic dish, crafted from simple ingredients, transforms humble onions into a rich, velvety soup that whispers tales of Italian kitchens. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a sophisticated starter at your next gathering. Discover how to create this comforting classic that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the onions: peel and carefully slice the 4 large onions into thin, uniform strips to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-low heat. The low temperature is crucial to slowly caramelize the onions without burning them.
- Add the sliced onions to the pot, stirring gently to coat them evenly with olive oil. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves over the onions.
- Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, for approximately 20-25 minutes. The goal is to achieve a deep golden-brown color and develop a rich, sweet caramelized flavor.
- Once the onions are beautifully caramelized, pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth. Increase the heat to medium and bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
- Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, ensuring a balanced flavor profile between the sweet caramelized onions and the savory broth.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and generously sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving.
- Serve immediately, preferably with a slice of crusty Italian bread on the side to soak up the flavorful broth.
Tips
- Choose the Right Onions: For the best flavor, opt for sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla. Their natural sweetness will enhance the soup’s richness.
- Caramelization is Key: Take your time when caramelizing the onions. Cooking them slowly over medium-low heat allows their sugars to develop fully, resulting in a deeper flavor.
- Experiment with Herbs: While thyme is traditional, feel free to add a bay leaf or a sprinkle of rosemary for an extra layer of aromatic goodness.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning gradually. A pinch of salt and a twist of pepper can dramatically change the flavor profile, so taste your soup as it simmers.
- Serve with Style: For a gourmet touch, drizzle a bit of high-quality olive oil on top before serving, and pair your soup with a slice of toasted Italian bread or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 5mg
