French Onion Soup
Ingredient:
– 6 medium onions (about 900 g / 2 lb), thinly sliced
– 3 tbsp butter
– 1–2 tbsp olive oil (optional)
– 1 tsp sugar (helps with caramelization)
– 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
– 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
– 2–3 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for light thickening)
– 1 cup (240 ml) dry white wine (optional; you can use 1/2 cup wine + 1/2 cup water)
– 6 cups (about 1.4 liters) beef stock (traditional) or chicken/vegetable stock
– 2–3 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf (optional)
– French bread or baguette, sliced and lightly toasted (4–8 slices depending on size)
– 2 cups shredded cheese for melting (classic: Gruyère; alternatives: Swiss, mozzarella, or cheddar)
