Discover the perfect Zuppa di Cipolle, an Italian onion soup known for its rich, savory broth and deep, comforting flavors. This classic recipe combines caramelized onions with a flavorful stock, topped with toasted bread and melted cheese. Ideal for cozy dinners or special occasions, our Zuppa di Cipolle will warm your soul and impress your guests. Easy to follow and deliciously satisfying, it's a must-try for soup lovers.

Ingredients:

- 4 large onions, thinly sliced

- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

- 2 tablespoons olive oil

- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth

- 1 cup dry white wine

- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

- 1 bay leaf

- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 4 slices of crusty bread

- 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese (or other melting cheese)

Instructions:

Prepare the Onions:

  - In a large pot, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat.

  - Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown, about 30 minutes. Be patient and avoid high heat to prevent burning.

Make the Soup Base:

  - Once the onions are caramelized, sprinkle the flour over them and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

  - Gradually add the white wine, stirring well to deglaze the pot and scrape up any browned bits.

Add the Broth:

  - Pour in the beef or vegetable broth, add the bay leaf and thyme, and bring to a boil.

  - Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Prepare the Bread:

  - While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  - Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Assemble and Serve:

  - Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls or crocks.

  - Place a toasted bread slice on top of each bowl of soup and sprinkle with grated cheese.

  - Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Enjoy:

  - Serve the Zuppa di Cipolle hot and enjoy the comforting, savory flavors.

Nutritional values

Here's the nutritional breakdown and benefits of the ingredients in your onion dish:

Main Ingredients:

Onions (4 large, thinly sliced):

   - Calories: 40

   - Fat: 0.1g

   - Carbohydrates: 9g

   - Protein: 1g

   - Fiber: 1.7g

Benefits:

   - Rich in antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which can help reduce inflammation.

   - Supports heart health by lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

   - Contains prebiotics that promote gut health.

Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons):

   - Calories: 102

   - Fat: 12g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Protein: 0g

Benefits:

   - Provides fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K.

   - Contains butyrate, which supports gut health and may reduce inflammation.

   - Adds richness and flavor to dishes.

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons):

   - Calories: 120

   - Fat: 14g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Protein: 0g

Benefits:

   - High in monounsaturated fats that support heart health.

   - Contains antioxidants, like vitamin E, which protect cells from damage.

   - Anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Beef or Vegetable Broth (4 cups):

   - Calories: 15-50 (depending on the type)

   - Fat: 0-2g

   - Carbohydrates: 1-2g

   - Protein: 1-2g

Benefits:

   - Provides flavor and depth to the dish.

   - Depending on the broth, it can be a source of minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium.

   - Helps hydrate the body while providing a low-calorie base for soups.

Dry White Wine (1 cup):

   - Calories: 120

   - Fat: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 4g

   - Protein: 0g

Benefits:

   - Adds acidity and depth to the dish.

   - Contains resveratrol, an antioxidant that may support heart health.

   - The alcohol mostly evaporates during cooking, leaving behind the flavor.

All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons):

   - Calories: 28

   - Fat: 0.1g

   - Carbohydrates: 6g

   - Protein: 1g

Benefits:

   - Provides thickness and structure to soups and sauces.

   - Source of carbohydrates that provides energy.

   - Low in nutrients compared to whole-grain alternatives.

Bay Leaf (1):

   - Calories: <1

   - Fat: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Protein: 0g

Benefits:

   - Adds aromatic flavor to dishes.

   - May aid in digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties.

   - Contains small amounts of vitamins A and C.

Fresh Thyme (1 teaspoon or 1/2 teaspoon dried):

   - Calories: 1

   - Fat: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0.2g

   - Protein: 0g

Benefits:

   - Rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants.

   - May have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

   - Adds a fragrant, earthy flavor to dishes.

Salt and Pepper (to taste):

   - Salt: High in sodium, no calories.

   - Pepper: Adds minimal calories and antioxidants.

Benefits:

   - Salt: Enhances flavor but should be used in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake.

   - Pepper: Adds a spicy kick and contains piperine, which may improve digestion and nutrient absorption.

For the Topping:

Crusty Bread (4 slices):

   - Calories: 120-150

   - Fat: 1-2g

   - Carbohydrates: 22-30g

   - Protein: 4-6g

Benefits:

   - Provides carbohydrates for energy.

   - A good source of fiber if whole-grain bread is used.

   - Adds texture and substance to the dish.

Grated Gruyère Cheese (1 cup):

   - Calories: 400

   - Fat: 32g

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

   - Protein: 29g

Benefits:

   - Rich in calcium, supporting bone health.

   - High in protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.

   - Adds a savory, creamy flavor to the dish, though it is high in fat and should be consumed in moderation.

These nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific brands and measurements used.