Cibulačka - Czech Onion Soup

Ingredients

• 4 large onions, thinly sliced 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried marjoram 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
• 4 cups (950ml) beef broth 4 cups (950ml) beef broth
• 1 tablespoon vinegar 1 tablespoon vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Croutons or bread, for serving Croutons or bread, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 10g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly until they caramelize and turn golden brown, stirring occasionally. This process may take around 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and dried marjoram. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to release the flavors.
3. 3.
   Pour in the beef broth and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. 4.
   Stir in the vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. 5.
   Remove the soup from heat and let it cool slightly. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
6. 6.
   Return the soup to the pot and reheat if necessary.
7. 7.
   Serve the Cibulačka hot, garnished with croutons or accompanied by slices of bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Onions — Slowly caramelizing the onions over low heat brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the flavor of the soup.
• Marjoram — Dried marjoram adds a distinct herbal note to the soup. If you don't have marjoram, you can substitute it with dried thyme or oregano.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of dry white wine while caramelizing the onions.
• If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend the soup partially instead of making it completely smooth.
• To make the soup vegetarian, substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth.

Serving advice

Serve the Cibulačka in warm bowls, garnished with a few croutons or accompanied by slices of crusty bread. The soup pairs well with a dollop of sour cream or grated cheese on top.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or chives on top of the soup. Serve it alongside a slice of freshly baked bread for a rustic and inviting look.