French Onion Soup

French Onion Soup

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 6 large yellow onions, thinly

sliced

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups beef broth
• 1 cup dry white wine
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
• 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
• 1 cup grated Swiss cheese
• Fresh thyme sprigs for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Caramelize the Onions:
   • In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Stir to coat the onions with the butter and oil.
   • Cook the onions, stirring frequently, until they turn a deep golden brown and caramelize. This will take about 45 minutes. Be patient, as this step is crucial for the soup’s flavor.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Prepare the Soup:
   • Add the beef broth, white wine, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes.
   • Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Prepare the Topping:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and bake them until they are lightly toasted, about 10 minutes.
   • Remove the baguette slices from the oven and set them aside.
4. Assemble and Bake:
   • Preheat your broiler.
   • Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls and place them on a baking sheet.
   • Place a toasted baguette slice on top of each bowl of soup.
   • Combine the Gruyère and Swiss cheeses, and generously sprinkle the cheese over the bread and soup.
   • Place the baking sheet with the soup bowls under the broiler and broil until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
5. Serve:
   • Carefully remove the soup bowls from the oven.
   • Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired.
   • Serve the French onion soup hot and enjoy!

This French Onion Soup is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal. Enjoy the delicious combination of caramelized onions, savory broth, and gooey melted cheese!