Traditional French Onion Soup

Description
Fruit & Vegetable Recipes II by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture, public domain government resource—original source of recipe
 * Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

 * ⅓ cup butter or margarine
 * 5 cups thinly sliced onions, about 2 pounds
 * 4 cans (10½ ounces each) condensed beef broth
 * 1 soup can water
 * 1 teaspoon salt
 * ⅛ teaspoon pepper
 * 6 to 8 French bread slices, 1 inch thick
 * ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

 * 1) Melt butter in large skillet.
 * 2) Add onions; cook over moderately low heat 30 minutes, stirring frequently.
 * 3) In large saucepan combine onions, beef broth, water, salt and pepper.
 * 4) Bring to a boil.
 * 5) Reduce heat; cover and simmer 1 hour.
 * 6) Toast bread.
 * 7) Place toast in one large or in individual bowls.
 * 8) Add soup; sprinkle toast with cheese.
 * 9) Serve with additional cheese, if desired.