CHEESE SMOTHERED ONION SOUP

Cheese Smothered Onion Soup image

Provided by Nancy Allen

Time 30m

Number Of Ingredients 10

3 Tbsp butter
8 c thinly sliced spanish onions (about 2 or 3)
1/4 tsp dried thyme leaves
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
2 Tbsp all purpose flour
6 c beef stock
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 large clove garlic, minced
6 slice french bread, about 3/4-inches thick
2 c shredded gruyere cheese

Steps:

1. In a dutch oven or large heavy saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onions, thyme and pepper; cook, stirring often, for 15 minutes or until onions are tender and a rich golden color. Blend in flour; stir in stock Bring to a boil, stirring until thickened. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, position oven rack 6 inches from broiler; preheat broiler. In a small bowl, combine olive oil and garlic; lightly brush oil mixture over both sides of bread. Arrange on baking sheet; place under broiler and toast on both sides.
3. Place toasts in deep ovenproof soup bowls; sprinkle with half the cheese. Arrange bowls in large shallow baking pan. Ladle hot soup in bowls. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Place under broiler for 3 minutes or until cheese melts and is lightly browned. Serve immediately.