Microwave French Onion Soup

Directions

NOTE: For best results, use a sweet onion, such as Vidalia or Texas Sweet, in this classic soup recipe. When microwaved, these high-sugar onions cook more quickly and are less bitter than more pungent varieties.

In 2-quart microwave-safe bowl, microwave butter on high 20 seconds or until melted.

Stir in onion and brown sugar.

Cover with waxed paper and microwave on medium (50 percent) 5 minutes.

Stir in undiluted broth and water; cover with paper and microwave on medium 10 minutes, stirring after 5 minutes.

Stir in pepper. (Soup can be made ahead up to this point and kept refrigerated; reheat before next step).

Place bread slices on microwave-safe plate; divide cheese among slices.

Microwave on high 20 seconds or until cheese is just melted.

To serve, divide soup among 4 small soup bowls; place one cheese topped bread slice in each bowl and top with parsley.

Serve immediately.