Vegan French Onion Soup (gluten-free options)
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Gather around for a heartwarming bowl of Vegan French Onion Soup! This cozy dish is filled with all the classic flavors you love, from caramelized onions to a rich broth. Topped with baguette slices and vegan cheese, this plant-based delight is a delicious indulgent tasting treat. Serve with lunch, or dinner.
Also perfect for date night or party gatherings. Whip up a batch of this easy vegan soup that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
What you’ll love about this recipe:
- Rich and comforting flavors.
- Easy to make.
- Simple ingredients.
- Warm and satisfying.
- Perfect for sharing with friends and family.
- Soup base can be made ahead of time for convenience.
- Offers a healthier twist on a classic favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and store it, without the bread and cheese, in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Then add bread and cheese, and broil a few minutes before serving.
Can I freeze leftovers of this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup base of this soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Can I use store-bought vegetable broth for this recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought vegetable broth if you don’t have homemade broth on hand. Just be sure to check the ingredients to ensure they are vegan-friendly. (or gluten-free diet friendly, if needed)
Can I make Vegan French Onion Soup gluten-free?
Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to use gluten-free bread for the toasted baguette slices if you have a gluten intolerance.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
While traditional French Onion Soup typically only includes onions, you can certainly add other vegetables such as carrots or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker or Instant Pot. Simply follow the same steps for caramelizing the onions, then transfer everything to your preferred appliance and cook according to its instructions.
Can I use red onions instead of yellow onions?
While yellow onions are traditionally used in French Onion Soup, you can experiment with red onions for a slightly different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that red onions may impart a sweeter taste to the soup.
Can I make this soup without butter?
Yes, you can omit the vegan butter if desired or substitute it with additional olive oil. The butter adds richness to the soup, but it’s not essential for the overall flavor. Additionally, you can add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast to the soup to add back in flavor.
Can I use a different type of bread for the baguette slices?
Yes, you can use any crusty bread you prefer for the baguette slices. French bread, ciabatta, or sourdough would all work well.
How can I prevent the baguette slices from becoming soggy in the soup?
To prevent the baguette slices from becoming soggy, you can toast them slightly under the broiler before adding them to the soup. Alternatively, you can serve the soup with the toasted baguette slices on the side.
Can I garnish the soup with fresh herbs?
Yes, you can garnish the soup with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
More Delicious French-Inspired Recipes
- French Chopped Salad
- Tomato, Corn, Zucchini Gallete
- Roasted Ratatouille Pasta
- French Lentil Stew
- Potato Leek Soup
- French Provencal Rice Pilaf
- Spinach, Mushroom & Sun-dried Tomato Quiche
- Chocolate Raspberry Layered Parfaits
- Chocolate Mousse
Have you tried this recipe? Please remember to rate and comment below!

Vegan French Onion Soup
Ingredients
- 4 large onions, cut in half and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter
- 5 cups vegetable broth
- 4 leaves from sprigs of fresh thyme (or 2 teaspoons dried thyme)
- 1 leaves from sprig of rosemary (or 1/8 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon arrowroot powder (or flour)
- 3 tablespoon coconut aminos (or tamari)
- 3 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- salt and pepper to taste
- baguette slices
- vegan cheese for topping (such as vegan mozzarella)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil and vegan butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown, about 30-40 minutes.
- In a separate container add arrowroot (or flour) to vegetable broth.
- Once the onions are caramelized, add the vegetable broth mix, coconut amino and balsamic vinegar, thyme, bay leaf, and rosemary to the pot.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce and simmer and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Once the soup is done, remove bay leaf. Ladle the hot soup into oven-safe bowls and top each bowl with a slice or two of toasted baguette. Grate or place vegan cheese slices over the baguette slices.
- Place the bowls of soup under the broiler and broil until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes. Watch carefully.
- Carefully remove the soup from the oven and serve hot.

OMG! I’ve got to try this one!