• 1 In a large pot, saute the onions in the oil on medium high heat until well browned, not burnt, be patient it will take 30-40 minutes. Add the sugar about 10 minutes into the cooking.2 Add garlic, saute 1 minute. Add the stock and water, wine, bay leaf and thyme. Cover and simmer about 30 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper and discard the bay leaf.3 Preheat the oven to broil. Hollow out the bread bowls. If desired put one slice of cheese on the bottom of the bowl and place in oven for 2 minutes. Ladle soup into the bowls and then place on baking sheet in the oven to broil for about 8 minutes or until cheese melts. Serve immediately.

Special instructions

• I like to make this soup in a bread bowl, but it works great it ramekins or soup crocks also.