Homemade French onion soup

Ingredients:

• 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to help caramelize the onions)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick slices
• 2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Caramelize the onions:

   • In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and golden, about 30-40 minutes. If they start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly.
   • (Optional: Add sugar halfway through to help the caramelization process.)

2. Add garlic and deglaze:

   • Once the onions are caramelized, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
   • If using, pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it cook off for 1-2 minutes.

3. Add the broth and season:

   • Add the beef broth to the pot along with the thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
   • Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 30-40 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

4. Prepare the bread:

   • While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until golden brown, about 10 minutes.

5. Assemble the soup:

   • Once the soup is ready, ladle it into oven-safe bowls, filling each one about three-quarters full.
   • Place a slice or two of toasted baguette on top of each bowl of soup.
   • Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Gruyère and Parmesan cheese on top of the bread.

6. Broil:

   • Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

7. Serve and enjoy:

   • Remove the bowls carefully from the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy your homemade French Onion Soup!