French Onion Soup
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
8 cups beef broth (low sodium)
1/2 cup water
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
1 bay leaf
1 baguette, sliced and toasted
2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
Directions:
Prepare the Onions
Caramelize Onions: In a large pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and salt. Stir occasionally and cook for 30-40 minutes, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden brown. Reduce the heat if needed to prevent burning.
Make the Soup
Add Seasonings: Stir in the thyme and add the bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Broth: Pour in the beef broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let the soup simmer uncovered for 30 minutes to deepen the flavors. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Prepare the Bread
Toast Baguette: Preheat your oven broiler. Place baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
Assemble the Soup
Add Cheese: Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of toasted baguette and a generous sprinkle of grated Gruyère cheese.
Broil: Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve
Garnish and Enjoy: Carefully remove the bowls from the oven. Serve immediately, garnished with extra thyme if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6