French Onion Soup Recipe

Here is a classic French onion soup recipe that is a firm family favourite, especially on those winter nights.

50 g (2 oz) butter
3 large white onions
1 liter (1 pint) beef stock
salt and pepper
12 French bread slices
125 g (4 1/2 oz) grated Gruyère cheese

Melt the butter in a large saucepan. Add the onions and fry them for about 15 minutes over a slow heat until they are soft and caramelized. Add the stock and add additional salt and pepper to taste. Simmer gently for 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 475°F/240°C. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and bake until they are evenly browned on both sides.

Pour the soup into a large casserole dish, or 4 individual ovenproof bowls. Float the bread on the top and sprinkle with the cheese and bake in the oven for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown.