French onion soup
(Soupe à l'oignon)

Ingredients:

50g butter
750ml (3 cups) beef stock
4-5 medium sized onions, thinly sliced
1 cup dry white wine
50ml brandy
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1-2 sprigs of fresh thyme (optional)
Salt & pepper to taste

To serve:

1 cup of grated gruyere cheese
1 French baguette, cut into slices

Method:

• Melt butter in a large saucepan, add onions & sugar. Cook over a low/medium heat for around 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until onions are golden & caramelised.
• Increase the heat to medium, add the thyme (optional), brandy, wine & beef stock. Bring to the boil.
• Season with salt & pepper.
• Reduce the heat to low & simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.
• After approximately 25 minutes, pre heat grill.
• Ladle soup into 4 oven proof serving dishes, add a slice of bread & top with a sprinkle of gruyere cheese. Grill until the cheese has melted.
• Serve immediately.