Vibrant red onion soup

Red onion soup is a beautiful variation on the classic, featuring the milder, sweeter flavor of red onions and a gorgeous purple hue. The balsamic vinegar enhances the natural sweetness while adding complexity.

This soup makes a stunning presentation for dinner parties - the deep purple color is unexpected and elegant. Red onions become wonderfully jammy when cooked slowly, creating a rich, sweet base.

About Red Onions

  • Flavor: Milder than yellow onions
  • Color: Beautiful purple when cooked
  • Texture: Becomes very soft
  • Best for: Sweeter soup profiles

Tips for Best Color

  • Don't overcook - color fades with heat
  • Add balsamic for deeper hue
  • Red wine enhances purple tones
  • Serve promptly for best color

Serving Suggestions

  • Goat cheese crumbles
  • Fresh rosemary
  • Crusty bread
  • Impressive dinner party starter

Red Onion Soup

Vibrant soup with sweet red onions and balsamic.

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 35 min
Total: 50 min
Servings: 6

Nutrition per serving

195Calories
5gProtein
22gCarbs
10gFat
3gFiber
12gSugar

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Cook onions. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add red onions and brown sugar. Cook 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until very soft and jammy.
  2. Deglaze. Add wine and balsamic vinegar. Scrape up any browned bits. Cook 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
  3. Simmer. Add broth and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Simmer 15 minutes.
  4. Serve. Remove rosemary. Season with salt and pepper. Serve topped with crumbled goat cheese if desired.

Recipe Notes

  • Blended version: Puree for smooth purple soup.
  • Add cream: Creates a lovely pink color.
  • Vegan: Use olive oil, skip goat cheese.
  • Storage: Refrigerate 4 days. Color may fade slightly.