Frequently Asked Questions
What is Quick and Easy Microwave French Onion Soup?
It is a time-saving version of the classic French Onion Soup that uses a microwave to caramelize onions and cook the broth efficiently while maintaining rich flavor.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 4 servings.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
The main ingredients include butter, medium onions, hot water, dry onion soup mix, beef bouillon, Worcestershire sauce, French bread, mozzarella cheese, and parmesan cheese.
How long do I microwave the onions initially?
Microwave the sliced onions and butter on high for 4 to 6 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
What type of cheese is used in this soup?
This recipe uses a combination of shredded mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 335 calories per serving.
Can I use a different bread besides French bread?
While French bread is recommended for its texture, you can use other crusty breads like baguette or sourdough as long as they are toasted.
How much fat is in this recipe?
The recipe contains 16.75g of fat per serving.
Is this French Onion Soup vegetarian?
No, this recipe contains beef bouillon and dry onion soup mix which typically contains beef extracts.
How do I prevent the bread from getting too soggy?
Toasting the bread until it is golden brown before adding it to the soup helps it maintain its structure against the liquid.
What is the total carbohydrate count?
The soup contains 37g of carbohydrates per serving.
How long is the total simmering time in the microwave?
After the initial high heat, the soup simmers for 15-20 minutes at 50% power.
Does this recipe contain a lot of sodium?
Yes, it contains 1580mg of sodium per serving, primarily from the bouillon and soup mix.
How much protein is in each serving?
There is 12.5g of protein per serving.
Should I cover the dish during the long microwave stage?
Yes, you should cover the dish to help retain moisture and heat while the soup simmers.
What is the purpose of Worcestershire sauce in this recipe?
Worcestershire sauce adds a savory umami depth that enhances the beefy flavor of the broth.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine, though butter provides a richer flavor for caramelizing the onions.
How many onions do I need?
The recipe calls for 2 medium onions.
Is there any sugar in this soup?
Yes, there is approximately 6.25g of sugar per serving, naturally occurring in the onions.
What power setting should I use to melt the cheese at the end?
Use the medium (50%) power setting for about 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
Do I need to stir the soup while it cooks?
Yes, you should stir the soup halfway through the 15-20 minute cooking period to ensure even heating.
Can I use pre-sliced onions?
Yes, using pre-sliced onions can save even more time during preparation.
What is the ingredient count for this recipe?
There are 9 ingredients in total.
What kind of dish should I use?
You must use a microwave-safe dish, preferably a large bowl or casserole dish that can be covered.
Can I substitute the beef bouillon with chicken bouillon?
You can, but the flavor will be different and less traditional than the standard beef-based broth.
How should I slice the onions?
The onions should be sliced thinly to ensure they soften quickly in the microwave.
Is there fiber in this soup?
The nutritional data for fiber is not specified for this recipe, though onions do provide a small amount.
Can I add dry wine to this recipe?
Yes, adding a splash of dry white wine or sherry along with the water can add an extra layer of sophistication.
How do I know the onions are done in the first step?
The onions are ready when they are soft, translucent, and have begun to absorb the butter.
Is this a good recipe for a quick lunch?
Absolutely, it is specifically designed for speed and convenience, making it perfect for a quick lunch or weeknight dinner.