Recipe + Photos by Samantha Scott

A Deeply Savory, Slow Simmered Soup That Feels Classic, Cozy, and Completely Plant Based

This vegan French onion soup delivers everything you want from the classic version. Deeply caramelized onions, rich savory broth, and layers of comforting flavor that develop slowly and intentionally. It is hearty enough to stand on its own but also pairs beautifully with crusty bread and melty vegan cheese for a more indulgent meal.

While this soup takes a bit of patience, the payoff is worth every minute. Low and slow cooking transforms simple onions into a deeply flavorful base, creating a soup that feels elegant, cozy, and satisfying any time of year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, rich flavor from properly caramelized onions
• Simple pantry ingredients with restaurant level results
• Naturally dairy free and easy to customize with toppings
• Perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or special occasions

Vegan French Onion Soup

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• Author: J Ivy
• Total Time: About 2 hours
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

A Cozy, Slow Simmered Onion Soup with Classic French Flavor

This vegan French onion soup features deeply caramelized onions, aromatic herbs, and a savory broth that develops rich flavor over time. Serve it simply or dress it up with crusty bread and vegan cheese for a comforting, classic inspired meal.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 3 large onions, thinly sliced into half moons

• 3 fresh thyme sprigs with leaves stripped or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• 2 cups filtered water

• 1 bay leaf

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

• 3 teaspoons sea salt, plus more to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Optional

• Crusty bread for dipping

• Vegan cheese for melting on top

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Instructions

1. In a large soup pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add sliced onions, thyme, and 1 teaspoon salt. Drizzle remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the onions.

3. Reduce heat to medium low and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until onions are deeply caramelized and light golden brown, about 50 to 60 minutes.

4. Add balsamic vinegar and cook until fully absorbed, about 15 minutes. The onions should be a deep rich brown.

5. Add vegetable broth, water, bay leaf, remaining salt, and black pepper. Bring to a rolling boil.

6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 30 minutes.

7. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Notes

Proper caramelization is key. Low heat and patience create the best flavor.

If onions begin to stick, add a splash of water to deglaze the pot and continue cooking.

This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Vegan cheese can be melted directly on top under a broiler if desired.

Nutrition info is approximate.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Category: Soups and Stews
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: French inspired, Vegan

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 210kcal`
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 920mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 4g