Remove the skins and cut the onions in half, then thinly slice. Heat the butter in a heavy deep based pan - I find Le Creuset to be the best. When melted add the onions and coat in the butter. Add the sugar, stir and let cook until browned. This will take about 20-25 minutes. If you want to add the mustard seeds add after 15 minutes.
When browned add the white wine and bring to the boil. When boiling add the beef stock, return to boil, then simmer with a lid on for 1 hour.
To make the croutons, pre heat a grill to high. Crush the garlic into the olive oil. Cut the french stick into slices, dip in the garlic/oil mix and then grill until golden on one side. Turn over and cover with grated gruyere cheese and grill until melted.
When the soup is ready (you can stir in the brandy now if you desire), serve in bowls, float one or two croutons on top and grate any remaining cheese over. Season with salt and pepper and serve immediately.
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