French Onion Soup

Melanie's French Onion Soup

3 T. olive oil
2 lg vidalia onions, sliced
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
4 c. beef broth
4 slices cibatta bread, cubed
4 oz. sliced fontina cheese
special equipment: 4 (1 1/2 c) ovenproof ramekins

in med., heavy saucepan, heat olive oil over med. heat. Add onions, salt & pepper. cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are tender, about 10 min. add thyme & broth. simmer, uncovered, until the onions are soft, about 15 min.

divide soup among 4 ovenproof ramekins. divide the cubed bread among the ramekins. top each w/slices of fontina cheese. place under broiler until cheese is golden & bubbly about 4 min. serve immediately.