Make Delicious Vegan French Onion Soup With A Divisive Ingredient

French onion soup is the ultimate comfort food, but its traditional use of beef stock can be a challenge for vegans. Achieving that rich umami flavor without animal products might seem impossible — until you add a surprising twist.

Enter Marmite or Vegemite. These bold, salty spreads are famous for dividing taste buds — some love them, others can't stand them. But what makes them special is their high concentration of free glutamic acid, the compound responsible for that earthy complexity. Both Marmite and Vegemite are made from hydrolyzed proteins and yeast extracts, which naturally pack in the flavor profile that you'd typically get from beef stock.

When you're making a vegan French onion soup, these spreads are a game changer. Just a small amount goes a long way, enriching the broth with that hearty, savory depth without being overpowering. If you get the balance right, Marmite or Vegemite can elevate your soup to new heights, making it the perfect addition. It might seem unconventional, but it's a secret weapon that could make even the biggest skeptics rethink their stance.

Incorporating Marmite or Vegemite into vegan French onion soup is simple but requires a delicate touch. Start by dissolving a small amount — about ½ to 1 teaspoon — into warm vegetable broth. These yeast extracts are highly concentrated, so a little goes a long way. If you're concerned about sodium, no worries — both Marmite and Vegemite offer reduced-salt versions, so you can still get that flavor you're going for without overdoing it.

For even greater depth, combine the yeast extract with other umami boosters like soy sauce, miso, or mushrooms. Soy sauce and miso bring a briny, fermented intricacy, while mushrooms, particularly dried varieties, add texture and richness. Slowly caramelized onions are essential too, bringing out a natural sweetness that balances the broth. To amplify the taste even further, add a splash of wine or balsamic vinegar. The acidity brightens the soup, cutting through the richness and uniting the flavors. A dollop of vegan butter or a drizzle of olive oil adds a silky texture, making each spoonful comforting.

The final step is just as important: Top your soup with crusty bread and gooey dairy-free cheese for an experience that rivals the traditional version. By carefully balancing each ingredient, you'll create a vegan French onion soup that's satisfying, hearty, and as flavorful as its non-vegan counterpart — all thanks to that daring little jar of Marmite or Vegemite.