French onion soup

I've made French onion soup before, but my previous recipes have been quick, shortcut versions.  This one from Smitten Kitchen is more authentic (read: time consuming), but SO worth it.  The onions are a 2-step process: first steeping them for 15 minutes in a covered pot on very low heat, then uncovering them and caramelizing them for 40 minutes over slightly higher heat.  Oh, and we made the "optional" gratinee of cheesy, crusty croutons- this is a must in my opinion.  Ok, enough mumbo-jumbo-- the bottom line is that this soup is delicious!