French Onion Soup

French Onion
A richly flavoured soup, made with the most basic rustic ingredients. Just make sure you really sweat the onions to bring out their flavour.
~ Serves 4

2 tbsp olive oil
6 medium-sized onions, cut into rings
2 glasses dry white wine
1.7 litre/ 3 pints hot veg stock

FOR TOPPING
8 slices french loaf
25g / 1oz gruyere cheese


In a large heavy based, lidded pan, heat oil and add onions, sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt and cook for 5-10 mins. Turn the heat down, pop on the lid and continue to cook for a further 20-30 mins, stirring occasionally. You want the onions to be just starting to caramelise - this is what gives you that rich tasting soup.

Turn the heat up and pour on the wine, cook for 5 mins then add stock. Bring to the boil, and simmer for 10 mins, taste and check seasoning. When ready to serve, top the bread slices with the cheese and pop under a hot grill until bubbling. Serve floating on top of the soup.