French Vegetarian Food - French Onion Soup

• 3 bay leaves
• 12 peppercorns
• 10 to 12 parsley sprigs
• 1 sprig fresh thyme or 1 tsp. dried
• 2 cloves or 3 garlic (whole)

Soup:

• 4 cups to 6 c. thinly sliced onions
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• pinch salt
• 6 cups water or vegetable stock
• salt, soy sauce, or light miso to taste
• sliced scallion or minced parsley -- for garnish
• 4 slices to 6 slices French bread -- toasted

Make a bouquet garni by placing bay leaves, peppercorns, parsley, thyme, and garlic in the center of a 12" square of cheesecloth, and tying the cloth's ends together. Set aside.

In a heavy pot, saute onions in oil over medium-low heat.
Add salt to prevent sticking, and stir frequently.

Cover pot with a lid, but leave it slightly ajar.
Onions should saute for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
They will reduce to about a third of their original volume and become sweet and golden.

Add water or stock along with the bouquet garni.
Simmer at least 30 minutes.
Remove bouquet garni.

Season soup with extra salt, soy sauce, or miso if desired.
Place in bowls and top with French bread.
Garnish with scallions or parsley.
Serve hot.

NOTES :
Adding a light miso will give this soup extra flavor.
Place a tablespoon in a cup, add some of the hot soup, stir to dissolve, and pour miso-broth mixture back into stock.
Add more if desired.