Warm up your day with this hearty favourite prepared with love by our very own Cathy Harris.

Cathy Harris' Easy French Onion Soup

Ingredients

• 2kg brown onions
• 3 teaspoon brown sugar
• 2 tablespoon plain flour
• 1 litre beef stock
• thyme
• parsley
• Baguette
• garlic
• Gruyere cheese

Method

1. Slice brown onions, gently brown in a fry pan with olive oil and butter mixture, saute for at least half an hour or until really soft. (optional, when soft add 3 teaspoons of brown sugar and 2 tablespoons of plain flour for a sweeter thicker soup).
2. Add beef stock and bring to boil, add the odd fresh herb for that professional touch - thyme and parsley - I do this early and let it sit
3. Before serving - warm soup, slice a baguette into diagonal slices, brown on one side, rub some garlic onto uncooked side, place on top oft he soup in individual bowls (or if making for a big family meal use a heavy casserole dish)
4. Coarsely grate Gruyere Cheese to the top of the bread.
5. Put under grill till cheese is melting and brown and bubbling on top.

Recipes thanks to Cathy Harris