French Onion Soup

Ingredients:

• 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp granulated sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 6 cups beef broth
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Baguette slices
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add onions and sprinkle with sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 30-40 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the white wine (if using) and cook for 3-4 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
4. Add beef broth and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. While the soup simmers, preheat the broiler. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast under the broiler until golden brown.
6. Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each bowl with toasted baguette slices and sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese.
7. Place the bowls under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Remove from the broiler, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy your French Onion Soup!