Traditional French Onion Soup

Preparation

1. Step 1

   In a sturdy soup pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the onions. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of pepper and stir well. Reduce the heat to low and cook the onions, stirring frequently until very deep brown. This will take about 20 to 40 minutes over low heat, depending on the quality of your soup pot. The onions must be minded carefully to avoid burning.

2. Step 2

   Crush the 2 tomatoes in your hands, add to the onions and stir. Add the beef broth, the thyme and bay leaf and simmer for at least 1 hour. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and serve, or top each one with a toasted crouton and grated Gruyere cheese, pass under the broiler and then serve.