Canning French Onion Soup Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

French onion soup is a timeless classic, loved for its rich, caramelized onion flavor, hearty broth, and golden, bubbly cheese topping. While it’s often enjoyed fresh, did you know you can preserve this comforting dish through canning?

Canning French onion soup not only extends its shelf life but also allows you to have this savory treat ready whenever you crave a warm, satisfying bowl without the long hours of preparation. Whether you’re meal prepping, stocking your pantry for winter, or just love the convenience of homemade canned goods, this recipe will guide you through the process of making and safely canning French onion soup at home.

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn the essential ingredients, necessary equipment, and step-by-step instructions to successfully can your own French onion soup. Plus, we’ll share tips to perfect your soup and variations to suit your taste.

Let’s dive into the wonderful world of homemade canned French onion soup that tastes just as good as when freshly made!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This canning French onion soup recipe is perfect for those who love classic comfort food but want the convenience of having it ready-to-eat anytime. It’s made using simple, wholesome ingredients like sweet onions, savory broth, and a hint of herbs, ensuring a deep, authentic flavor.

The canning process locks in that fresh-cooked taste and provides a long shelf life, making it ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Additionally, this recipe is versatile—you can easily adjust it to be vegetarian or add your favorite toppings right before serving. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to reduce food waste by preserving extra soup in jars.

If you’re interested in other easy and delicious recipes, check out Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping or Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for more inspiration.

Ingredients

• 6 large yellow onions, thinly sliced (about 3 pounds)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter or oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 2 teaspoons sugar (to help caramelize onions)
• 8 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (vegetarian if needed)
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, adds depth)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Gruyère cheese or Swiss cheese for serving (optional)
• Baguette slices for topping (optional)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for caramelizing onions and cooking soup
• Canning jars (quart or pint size), sterilized
• Lids and rings for canning jars
• Large canning pot with rack for water bath processing
• Jar lifter for safely handling hot jars
• Wide-mouth funnel to fill jars cleanly
• Ladle for transferring soup into jars
• Clean towels to wipe jar rims
• Timer to monitor processing time

Instructions

1. Prepare the onions: Peel and thinly slice the yellow onions. This will take some time, but thin slices caramelize beautifully.
2. Caramelize the onions: In a large heavy pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook slowly for 45-60 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions turn deep golden brown and caramelized. Patience is key here to develop the rich flavor.
3. Add garlic and herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaves. Cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the pot: Pour in the white wine (if using) to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it reduce by half, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Add broth and seasonings: Add the beef or vegetable broth, Worcestershire sauce, and balsamic vinegar. Stir well, bring to a simmer, and cook uncovered for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
6. Prepare jars and lids: While the soup simmers, sterilize your canning jars, lids, and rings by boiling them in water or using a dishwasher on high heat. Keep jars warm to prevent cracking when filling.
7. Fill jars: Remove bay leaves from the soup. Using a ladle and funnel, fill each jar with hot soup, leaving 1-inch headspace at the top. Wipe rims with a clean, damp cloth to ensure proper sealing.
8. Seal jars: Place lids on jars and screw on the rings until fingertip-tight. Do not overtighten.
9. Process jars: Place jars in a boiling water bath canner with a rack to prevent direct contact with the pot bottom. Ensure jars are covered by at least 1-2 inches of water. Boil for 30 minutes (adjust for altitude if necessary).
10. Cool and store: Carefully remove jars using a jar lifter and place them on a towel to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Check seals before storing in a cool, dark place. Any unsealed jars should be refrigerated and consumed within days.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, use a rich vegetable broth and substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or a vegetarian alternative.

Caramelizing onions is the heart of the soup’s flavor. Take your time and don’t rush this step.

If the onions start to stick, add a splash of water or broth to prevent burning.

For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of sherry or brandy instead of white wine during deglazing. You can also experiment with different herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique twist.

When canning, always follow the latest USDA guidelines to ensure food safety, especially concerning processing times and altitude adjustments.

While cheese and bread are classic toppings, it’s best to add them fresh when serving since they don’t preserve well in jars.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

French onion soup is best served hot, topped with toasted baguette slices and melted Gruyère cheese. If you’ve canned the soup, simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

For a lighter option, skip the bread and cheese, and garnish with fresh parsley or chives. This soup pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a crusty artisan loaf for a complete meal.

Looking for more soup ideas? Try the Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide or explore Vegetarian Coconut Soup Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals for more comforting bowls.

Conclusion

Canning French onion soup is a fantastic way to enjoy a beloved classic anytime without the lengthy preparation. This recipe guides you through the essential steps, from caramelizing sweet onions to safely preserving the soup in jars.

Not only does it save time, but it also lets you savor the rich flavors of homemade soup all year round.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the busy week or stocking your pantry for cozy winter evenings, canned French onion soup makes a delicious and convenient option. Remember to always prioritize food safety and use quality ingredients for the best results.

Happy canning and enjoy every flavorful spoonful!

For more delicious homemade recipes, check out Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious and Black Bean Sauce Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Guide.

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