French Onion Soup

Steps

1. 1
   Step 1:

   Melt the butter with the olive oil in a large heavy-based pan.

2. 2
   Step 2:

   Add the onions, cover with a lid, and fry for 10 minutes until soft.

   10 min
3. 3
   Step 3:

   Sprinkle in the sugar and cook for 20 minutes more, stirring frequently, until the onions are caramelized, really golden, flavorful, and soft when pinched between your fingers. Take care toward the end so they do not burn.

   20 min
4. 4
   Step 4:

   Add the sliced garlic for the final few minutes of the onions’ cooking time, then sprinkle in the flour and stir well.

5. 5
   Step 5:

   Increase the heat and keep stirring as you gradually add the dry white wine, followed by the hot beef stock.

6. 6
   Step 6:

   Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes.

   15–20 min
7. 7
   Step 7:

   To serve, turn on the grill and toast the bread.

8. 8
   Step 8:

   Ladle the soup into heatproof bowls.

9. 9
   Step 9:

   Put one or two slices of toast on top of each bowl of soup and pile on the Gruyère.

10. 10
    Step 10:

    Grill until the cheese is melted. Alternatively, finish the cheese-topped toasts under the grill and serve them on top of the soup.