Soupe à l'Oignon Gratinée
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 large onions (about 1 1/2 lbs), thinly sliced
4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
2 tablespoons flour
1/2 cup dry white wine (chardonnay, pinot grigio, sauvignon blanc, etc.)
8 cups chicken or beef broth
2 tablespoons brandy
8 thick slices of French bread, toasted
1 whole garlic clove
12 ounces Swiss cheese, grated
1) In a large heavy saucepan or flameproof casserole, heat the butter and oil over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook for 10-12 minutes until they are softened and beginning to brown.
2) Add the garlic, sugar and thyme, and continue to cook over medium heat until the onions are well browned, stirring frequently.
3) Sprinkle over the flour and stir until well blended. Stir in the white wine and broth and bring to a boil. Skim off any foam that rises to the top, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes. Stir in the brandy.
4) Preheat a broiler. Rub each slice of toasted French bread with the garlic clove. Place 8 ovenproof soup bowls on a baking sheet and fill about 3/4 full with the soup.
5) Float a piece of toast in each bowl. Top with grated cheese, dividing it evenly, and broil about 6 inches from the heat for about 3 minutes until the cheese begins to melt and bubble.