Today, I’m excited to share a delightful recipe for a classic dish that warms the heart and the soul: French Onion Soup. This rich and flavorful soup is perfect for chilly evenings and is sure to impress your family and friends. Not only does it have a delicious taste, but it also brings a touch of elegance to any meal. Let’s get cooking!

French Onion Soup

This soup is known for its caramelized onions, savory broth, and a delicious topping of gooey melted cheese. With a little patience and love, you can create a homemade version that rivals any restaurant!

### Ingredients:

• 4 large onions (yellow or white), thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 8 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• French baguette or crusty bread, sliced
• 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese (or a mix of Gruyère and mozzarella)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add the butter and olive oil. Once melted, add the sliced onions and stir to coat. Sprinkle with salt and sugar.
2. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 30-40 minutes until they are deeply caramelized and golden brown. Be patient; this step adds incredible flavor!
3. Once caramelized, pour in the wine (if using) and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it reduce for a few minutes.
4. Add the broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 20-30 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary.
5. While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and toast them for about 10 minutes until golden brown. You can also broil them for a minute or two, watching closely to prevent burning.
6. Remove the bay leaf from the soup and ladle it into oven-safe bowls. Place a slice of toasted bread on top of each bowl, then sprinkle a generous amount of cheese over the bread.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also broil for an extra 1-2 minutes for a golden crust.
8. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the rich flavors of your homemade French Onion Soup!

There you have it! A comforting bowl of French Onion Soup that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a labor of love but well worth the effort. Serve it with a side salad for a complete meal, and enjoy every bite!