French Onion Soup

I love my dad, but he is seriously the hardest person to shop for!

If he wants something, he’ll usually just go and get it for himself. But I’ve learned over the years that all my dad wants is a full belly and for us to spend time with him. Well Dad-O, I can definitely make that happen this Father’s Day!

This French Onion soup is savory and delicious, without being too filling. It’s a good starter for a meal (or could be a whole meal if you’re watching your calories) and it’ll have everyone wanting seconds. Here’s how to make some for the father figure in your life:

4 pounds yellow onions (peeled and thinly sliced (about 5-6 large onions))
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic (minced)
3 tablespoons flour
1/2 dry white wine
6 cups beef stock
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 bay leaf
3 sprigs of thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
salt and pepper to taste
baguette
grated cheese (Gruyere, Asiago, Swiss, or Mozzarella)

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium high heat. Add the onions (I used a mandolin to get them nice and thin) to the pot and cook for about an hour – stirring every few minutes.
Once the onions are browned (not burnt), add in the garlic. Cook for 1 minute. Next, add in the flour. Cook for 1 minute.
Add in the wine and, using a wooden utensil, scrape the browned bits off the bottom of the pot. There’s a lot of flavor in those bits!
Add the beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot. bring it to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to medium low and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs.
While the soup is simmering, slice the baguette into 1/2 inch slices and toast in a 400 degree oven for about 6 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Turn the broiler portion of your oven on. On a baking sheet, place your oven safe serving bowls. Fill each bowl with soup. Top the soup with a bread slice and then your cheese of choice on top. I used 1 slice of Mozzarella, but if you use grated cheese, it will be about 1/4 cup.
Place in the oven under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Cheese should be hot and bubbly. Serve immediately.