FRENCH ONION SOUP

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Time: 20 minutes prep, 1 hour cook

Serves: 4

This classic soup is an ideal winter warmer perfect for the cooler months! It’s quick and easy to make and only comprises of a few simple, but flavourful ingredients.

Ingredients:

Soup:

-       2 tablespoons olive oil

-       1kg brown onions

-       2 fresh thyme sprigs

-       2 tablespoons plain flour

-       ½ cup sweet sherry

-       6 cups of chicken stock in liquid form

To serve (if desired)

-       Baguette (sliced into 1.5cm rounds)

-       Olive oil cooking spray

-       Gruyere cheese (or whatever cheese you prefer)

Method:

1.     Heat oil in a large, heavy-based saucepan over low to medium heat. Add onion and thyme. Cook, stirring often, for 45 minutes or until onion is browned and softened.

2.     Increase heat to medium. Add flour. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add sherry. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes or until bubbling. Add stock and 2 cups cold water. Cover. Bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20 minutes or until slightly thickened.

3.     Meanwhile, preheat oven to 180°C fan-forced. Cut eight 1.5cm slices from bread. Spray both sides bread with oil. Place on a baking tray. Bake, turning once, for 5 minutes or until lightly browned. Top with cheese. Bake for 2 to 3 minutes or until cheese has melted.

4.     Ladle soup into bowls. Top each with 1 cheese toast. Season with salt and pepper.