How to Thicken French Onion Soup Without Flour (10 Ways)

Looking for ways to thicken your French onion soup without using flour?

Well, have you ever wondered how to achieve that perfect, velvety texture without the need for traditional thickening agents?

We’ve got you covered!

In this article, we’ll explore ten creative and delicious ways to amp up the thickness of your French onion soup.

So, put on your apron and get ready to elevate your soup game to a whole new level.

Let’s dive in!

Use Cornstarch as a Thickening Agent

You can use cornstarch as a thickening agent in French onion soup without using flour. Cornstarch is a versatile ingredient that can be used as a substitute for flour in many recipes.

To thicken your French onion soup, start by sautéing your onions until they are caramelized and soft. In a separate bowl, mix together a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little bit of cold water to create a slurry.

Once your onions are ready, pour in your broth and bring it to a simmer. Gradually add the cornstarch slurry to the soup, stirring constantly. The cornstarch will thicken the soup and give it a smooth texture.

Keep in mind that cornstarch has a stronger thickening power than flour, so a little goes a long way. Enjoy your thick and delicious French onion soup without the need for flour!

Incorporate Mashed Potatoes Into the Soup

To incorporate mashed potatoes into the soup, simply peel and boil the potatoes until they’re tender. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and mash them until they’re smooth and creamy. Then, add the mashed potatoes to the French onion soup and stir well to combine.

The mashed potatoes will act as a natural thickening agent, adding a rich and velvety texture to the soup. As the soup simmers, the starch in the potatoes will release, further thickening the broth. The result will be a hearty and comforting soup with a creamy consistency.

Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of mashed potatoes based on your desired thickness. Enjoy your delicious and thickened French onion soup with the added goodness of mashed potatoes!

Add Cream or Heavy Whipping Cream

Adding cream or heavy whipping cream to the soup will create a rich and creamy texture. This simple addition will take your French onion soup to a whole new level of indulgence.

Start by heating the soup on low heat, then pour in a generous amount of cream. Stir it gently to incorporate the cream into the soup, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the other flavors.

As the cream heats up, it will infuse the soup with a velvety smoothness that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. The cream will also add a touch of sweetness, balancing out the savory depth of the caramelized onions.

Use Arrowroot Powder Instead of Flour

Using arrowroot powder instead of flour is a great alternative for thickening your soup. Arrowroot powder is a natural starch that comes from the root of the arrowroot plant. It has a neutral flavor and a smooth texture, making it a perfect substitute for flour.

To use arrowroot powder as a thickening agent, simply mix it with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry, and then add it to your soup. Stir the soup continuously as you add the slurry to prevent lumps from forming.

Arrowroot powder also has the added benefit of being gluten-free, making it a suitable option for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies.

Blend in Pureed Vegetables for Thickness

Blending pureed vegetables into your soup creates a thick and nutritious base. Not only does it add a velvety texture, but it also amps up the nutritional value of your dish.

Start by choosing vegetables that complement the flavors of your soup, like carrots, celery, or butternut squash. Cook them until they are soft and easily blendable.

Then, transfer the cooked vegetables to a blender or food processor and puree until smooth. Next, add the pureed vegetables to your soup, stirring well to incorporate them evenly.

The pureed vegetables will thicken the soup, giving it a heartier consistency without the need for flour. Plus, you’ll be sneaking in extra vitamins and fiber.

Enjoy your thick and wholesome soup!

Simmer the Soup to Reduce and Thicken

To achieve a thicker consistency and intensify the flavors, let the soup simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

As you allow the soup to bubble gently, the liquid will slowly reduce and thicken, creating a more satisfying texture.

This method is perfect for French onion soup, as it allows the onions to caramelize further and release their natural sweetness.

The low heat gives the flavors time to meld together, resulting in a richer and more concentrated taste.

While the soup simmers, you can take the opportunity to prepare some crusty bread or melt cheese on top for a classic French onion soup experience.

Stir in Grated Cheese for a Creamy Texture

Now that you’ve learned how to simmer the soup to reduce and thicken it, let’s move on to another way to achieve that desired creamy texture for your French onion soup.

One effective method is to stir in grated cheese. As the cheese melts, it adds a delicious richness and thickness to the soup. Choose a cheese with a strong flavor, like Gruyere or Swiss, to enhance the taste of the onions.

Start by adding a small amount of grated cheese and stir it into the hot soup until it melts completely. Taste and adjust the amount of cheese based on your preference.

The result will be a velvety smooth soup that will leave you craving for more.

Use Xanthan Gum as a Gluten-Free Thickener

If you’re looking for a gluten-free thickener, xanthan gum is a great option to consider. Xanthan gum is a natural ingredient that is derived from fermented corn sugar. It is commonly used in gluten-free baking as a substitute for wheat flour.

But did you know that it can also be used as a thickening agent in soups and sauces? By adding just a small amount of xanthan gum to your French onion soup, you can achieve a thick and velvety texture without the need for flour.

Simply sprinkle a teaspoon of xanthan gum into your soup and stir until it is fully dissolved. The xanthan gum will thicken the liquid and give your soup a smooth and creamy consistency. Plus, since xanthan gum is gluten-free, it is a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Add a Roux Substitute for Thickening

When thickening your soups or sauces, try using a roux substitute made with equal parts butter and gluten-free flour. This alternative is perfect for those who follow a gluten-free diet or have gluten sensitivities.

To make the roux substitute, simply melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat and then add the gluten-free flour. Stir the mixture continuously until it forms a smooth paste.

This roux substitute works just like a traditional roux, helping to thicken your soups or sauces to the desired consistency. It adds a rich and creamy texture without compromising on taste.

Garnish With Crispy Fried Onions for Extra Texture

To add extra texture to your dishes, try garnishing with crispy fried onions.

These golden, crunchy onions not only add a delightful crunch to your meals, but they also bring a burst of flavor that will elevate any dish.

Whether you’re topping off a salad, soup, or even a burger, crispy fried onions will take your culinary creations to the next level.

The process is simple – thinly slice an onion, coat the slices in flour, dip them in beaten egg, and then fry them until they turn a beautiful golden brown.

Sprinkle these crispy fried onions on top of your favorite dishes and watch as they add that perfect finishing touch.

Don’t be surprised if your guests ask for seconds!