Rich Onion Soup with Gruyère Toast - chefmelt

Ingredients

• 3 large onions, sliced super thin
• 4 minced garlic cloves
• 2 teaspoons thyme, fresh leaves only
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons optional flour for thickening
• 2 cups plain water
• 2 cups broth, beef if you can
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 tablespoons butter, unsalted
• 2 pounds short ribs, bone-in
• 1 cup red wine, dry works best
• A pinch of salt and some ground pepper to adjust taste
• 1 garlic clove, cut in half
• 6 slices of baguette, French-style
• 1½ cups grated Gruyère cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted and unsalted