Parisian Cipolletta

Background and History

The Parisian Cipolletta is a delightful dish originating from the heart of Paris, where French culinary tradition meets Italian influence. Cipolletta refers to the specific type of onions used in the dish, known for their sweet and mild flavor. This recipe has evolved over the centuries and was traditionally prepared as a rustic dish celebrating the onion harvest in autumn. Its simplicity yet profound flavor has made it a beloved comfort food throughout the generations.

The dish is often served in small bistros along the Seine, where diners can enjoy the rich aroma of the cipolletta wafting through the cozy, candle-lit rooms. Historically, onions have been a staple in many cultures, and in Paris, they have found a culinary home, celebrated for their versatility and depth of flavor.

Ingredients

• Cipolletta onions - 500g
• Butter - 100g
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 3 cloves
• Thyme - 1 tablespoon
• Chicken broth - 500ml
• White wine - 100ml
• Bay leaf - 1
• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste
• Baguette or crusty bread - sliced
• Gruyere cheese - 200g, grated

Preparation

To start preparing your Parisian Cipolletta, gather all your ingredients on a spacious, clean work surface. Make sure the cipolletta onions are peeled and sliced thinly to ensure even cooking. This step is critical for achieving the dish's signature sweetness.

Next, finely chop your garlic cloves and set them aside. Prepare your baguette by slicing it into even pieces and grating the gruyere cheese ready to sprinkle later.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Caramelizing the Onions

In a large saucepan, add the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and begun to foam, add the sliced cipolletta onions. Stir regularly to prevent them from sticking or burning. This process should take around 30 minutes, so set a timer.

As the cipolletta onions slowly caramelize, add in the chopped garlic. Continue to stir until the onions are golden brown and sweet.

Step 2: Building the Broth

With your onions caramelized, deglaze the pan using the white wine, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let this reduce by half before adding the chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Allow the dish to simmer for about 20 minutes, infusing the broth with the aromatic flavors. Again, remember to set your cooking timer so that you don't overcook the broth.

Step 3: Preparing the Toppings

While the soup simmers, preheat your oven's grill setting. Place the slices of baguette on a baking tray and evenly sprinkle with gruyere cheese. Toast them under the grill until the cheese is golden and bubbling.

Step 4: Assembling and Serving

Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Taste the broth and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Ladle the soup into individual serving bowls, and top each with two to three cheesy bread slices.

Enjoying Your Parisian Cipolletta

The Parisian Cipolletta is best enjoyed fresh and hot. As you dig into this heartwarming dish, make sure to savor the layers of flavors created by the slow-cooked cipolletta onions and aromatic herbs. The crisp baguette and melted gruyere cheese provide a beautiful contrast to the deeply flavorful broth.

Pair the Parisian Cipolletta with a light salad or a glass of the same white wine used in the cooking process to elevate your dining experience. Enjoy this dish in the company of friends and loved ones, as the true essence of Parisian cooking lies in the joy of sharing and delighting in good food.