French Onion Soup

Caramelized French Onion Soup

Caramelized French Onion Soup

Ingredients

Makes 4 servings

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 medium Vidalia or other sweet onions, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup calvados or brandy (optional)
• 1/2 cup apple cider or apple juice
• 5 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 4 slices French baguette
• vegan parmesan or parmasio (optional)

Method

1. In a large soup pot, heat the oil over medium heat
2. Add the onions and garlic
3. Cover and cook until softened
4. Uncover and continue to cook until the onions are very soft and begin to caramelize
5. Stir in the calvados, if using, then add the cider, broth, thyme and bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 45 minutes to an hour to allow the flavors to mingle
7. Preheat the broiler
8. When ready to serve, arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet and top each with a small amount of Parmesan, if using
9. Place under the broiler until toasted, about 1 minute
10. Remove and discard the bay leaf
11. Ladle the soup into 4 bowls, top with a toasted bread slice and serve