Fabulous French Onion Soup

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Add butter and oil to the Instant Pot. Using the display panel select the SAUTÉ function.
2. When butter is melted, add onion, brown sugar, thyme, garlic and bay leaf to the pot.
3. Cook and stir for 10-15 minutes until onions have cooked down by half and have a pasta-like consistency.
4. Add brandy to the pot and deglaze by using a wooden spoon to scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Continue to cook and stir until alcohol has cooked off, then add red wine and warmed broth to the pot and stir.
6. Turn the pot off by selecting CANCEL , then secure the lid, making sure the vent is closed.
7. Using the display panel select the MANUAL or PRESSURE COOK function*. Use the +/- keys and program the Instant Pot for 8 minutes.
8. When the time is up, quick-release the remaining pressure. Remove and discard thyme stems and bay leaf. Add salt and pepper to taste.
9. Ladle the soup into crocks, place a slice of bread on each crock and a slice of cheese on each piece of bread. Sprinkle with paprika.
10. Put crocks on a baking sheet lined with foil and set under the broiler until the top begins to bubble and brown, 5-7 minutes.