FRENCH ONION SOUP GRATINEE

Steps:

• 1. In a medium stockpot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add onions, thyme, bay leaves, salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft (10 min). Reduce the heat to low and cook until the onions are golden (45 min - 1 hour). Sprinkle in the flour and cook, stirring for 1 minute. Stir in the wine and cook 1 minute. Stir in the broth, bring to a boil, reduce to simmer, and cook for 30 min (stirring occasionally). 2. Preheat oven to 350. Cut the bread slices to fit bowls. Arrange bread in one layer on rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, turning once half way through. Soup and bread can be prepared up to 3 days in advance. 3. Preheat broiler with rack so tops of bowls will be 4-5 in. from top. Arrange crocks on a rimmed backing sheet. Gently reheat soup. Stir in cognac. Ladle into crocks, top with bread and cheese, Broil 2-3 min and serve.