French Onion Soup

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 medium yellow onions, sliced
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/4 cup brandy (optional)
• 1 French baguette, sliced and toasted
• 1/2 cup shredded Gruyere cheese

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat the butter and oil over medium-high heat. Add the onions, sugar, garlic, salt, thyme, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown.
2. Add the flour and cook, stirring, for 1 minute.
3. Add the beef broth, wine, bay leaves, and brandy, if using. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Ladle the soup into oven-safe serving bowls. Top each bowl with a slice of toasted baguette and a sprinkle of Gruyere cheese. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and broil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve hot.

Interesting Facts

• French Onion Soup is a classic French dish that is perfect for cold winter days.
• The key to a good French Onion Soup is to caramelize the onions until they are golden brown.
• Gruyere cheese is the traditional cheese used for French Onion Soup, but you can also use Swiss or Gruyere-style cheese.