French Onion Beef Short Rib Soup (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 2 tablespoons olive oil.
02 - 1 pound beef short ribs.
03 - 4 large onions, thinly sliced.
04 - 4 cloves garlic, minced.
05 - 6 cups beef broth.
06 - 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar.
07 - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme.
08 - 1 bay leaf.
09 - Salt and pepper to taste.
10 - 4 slices French bread.
11 - 1 cup Swiss or Gruyère cheese, shredded.

# Instructions:

01 - Heat oil in large pot. Season and sear short ribs 4-5 minutes per side until browned. Remove.
02 - In same pot, cook onions 15-20 minutes until caramelized. Add garlic and cook 1-2 minutes.
03 - Return beef to pot with broth, vinegar and seasonings. Simmer covered 1.5-2 hours until meat is tender.
04 - Shred meat and return to soup. Top bowls with toasted bread and cheese. Broil 2-3 minutes until bubbly.

# Notes:

01 - Can add sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
02 - Chicken broth can substitute for lighter version.