Slow Cooker French Onion Soup

Deeply caramelised onions in a rich broth, topped with a cheesy crouton. A bistro classic.

Ingredients

• 6 large onions, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 50g butter
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 litre beef or vegetable stock
• 150ml white wine (optional)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 4 slices crusty bread
• 100g Gruyere or mature Cheddar, grated
• Salt and pepper

Method

1. Melt the butter and toss with the onions, garlic, and brown sugar.
2. Place in the slow cooker.
3. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours until deeply golden and caramelised.
4. Add the stock, wine, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Cook for another 30 minutes.
5. Ladle into oven-safe bowls. Top each with a slice of bread and a generous handful of cheese.
6. Grill until the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Tips

The secret is patience — the long, slow cooking is what caramelises the onions. Don’t rush it.