Crock Pot French Onion Soup

Does this weather put you in the mood for soup? I know that it's all I have been wanting lately, and when it comes to easy meals, the crock pot is my best friend. My husband and I have an affinity for caramelized onions, we could eat them with everything. Well, if you feel the same way then this soup will be perfect for you. Whoever you decide to share it with will also be all warm and grateful.

Ingredients

4 medium onions, thinly sliced

3 garlic cloves, minced [I leave this out and I do not think it needs it]

2 tablespoons of butter

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar [I used my favorite from We Olive on 2nd]

2 tablespoons brown sugar

3 tablespoons flour

8 ounces of beer [Stella]

64 ounces of low-sodium beef stock

2 tablespoons fresh thyme

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

French bread [I used homemade whole wheat]

Sliced Swiss cheese

Set your crock pot on high, then add onions, brown sugar, butter, salt and balsamic and mix until combined. Cover and let cook for 60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are soft and brown on the edges. Add in flour, then stir thoroughly and let sit for 5 minutes. Add in beer [also drink one while you're at it], beef stock, thyme, and pepper. Then turn heat down to low, cover and cook for 6-8 hours.

Before serving, cut your bread of choice into slices. Fill soup bowls to the top, then cover with a slice of bread and a slice of cheese. Set under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly. Be careful when serving as bowls will be hot! I actually do not enjoy the bread on top of my soup so as you can see pictured I eat it on the side, whatever floats your cheese boat.