Classic French Onion Soup – Simmer + Sauce

Ingredients

• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 8 medium yellow onions, peeled, halved, and very thinly sliced
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 4 tablespoons dry sherry
• 2 quarts of good quality rich beef stock
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh baguette, sliced 1/4-inch thick, brushed with olive oil and lightly toasted
• 1 bouquet garni consisting of 2 bay leaves, 4 fresh thyme sprigs, 4 juniper berries tied in a cheesecloth
• 4 cups shredded Gruyère cheese