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Turkish Onion Soup Recipe

Turkish Onion Soup Recipe (Easy & Traditional Soğan Çorbası)

Learn how to make Turkish onion soup with caramelized onions, garlic, and rich broth. This easy and traditional recipe is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for cold days.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Soup
Cuisine Turkish
Servings 5 servings
Calories 291 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 5 medium onions thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic finely chopped
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 6 cups hot broth chicken or vegetable
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

For topping:

  • 5 slices bread baguette preferred
  • 3/4 cup grated cheese cheddar or similar

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the onions:
  • Slice the onions into thin half-moons and finely chop the garlic.
  • Start caramelizing:
  • Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot. Add onions, garlic, bay leaf, and thyme. Cook on low heat for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions become soft and golden.
  • Deepen the flavor:
  • Increase heat slightly and cook for another 5 minutes until onions develop a deeper brown color. Remove bay leaf and thyme.
  • Add flour:
  • Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir continuously for 2–3 minutes until lightly toasted. This helps thicken the soup.
  • Add broth:
  • Slowly pour in hot broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
  • Season:
  • Add salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Prepare for baking:
  • Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Place a slice of bread on top and sprinkle with grated cheese.
  • Bake:
  • Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.
  • Serve:
  • Serve hot immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Always cook onions slowly to release their natural sweetness.
• Do not rush caramelization — this is the key to deep flavor.
• If the soup tastes too acidic, add a small pinch of sugar.
• Use homemade broth for richer taste.
• For a lighter version, skip the cheese topping.
Nutrition (Approx per serving)
Calories: 291 kcal
Protein: 11 g
Fat: 19 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 2 g
This recipe is part of our complete Turkish Soups Guide, where you can explore more traditional Turkish soup recipes.