French Onion Soup

Ingredients

• Caramelized onions
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 2 cans (14 oz. each) fat-skimmed chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (3 in. each)
• 1 dried bay leaf
• Salt and pepper
• 8 slices baguette (about 2 by 4 in. and 1 in. thick)
• 1/4 cup shredded gruyère cheese

Preparation

1. 1. In a 3- to 4-quart pan over medium-high heat, stir onions and balsamic vinegar often until liquid is evaporated, 1 to 2 minutes.
2. 2. Add broth, thyme, and bay leaf; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally to blend flavors, 10 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. 3. Meanwhile, place baguette slices in a single layer on a 12- by 15-inch baking sheet. Broil 4 to 6 inches from heat until lightly browned on top, 1 to 2 minutes. Turn slices over and sprinkle evenly with cheese. Broil until cheese is melted, 1 to 2 minutes longer.
4. 4. Remove thyme and bay leaf; ladle soup into bowls. Serve with toasts.