EMERIL'S GARLICKY BREAD SOUP

Steps:

• In a large saucepan, over medium heat, add the olive oil.
• When the oil is hot, add the onions, garlic, crushed bay leaf and crushed red pepper.
• Season with salt.
• Saute until slightly caramelized, about 6-8 minutes.
• Stir in the stock.
• Bring the liquid up to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and simmer for 40 minutes.
• Turn the heat up and whisk in the bread and cream.
• Continue whisking until the bread has dissolved into the soup, about 10 minutes.
• With a hand-held blender, puree the soup until smooth.
• Whisk in the cheese.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Ladle into individual soup bowls and serve.
• Garnish with parsley.