Neighborly Onion Soup

1. 1

   Set the oven to broil. This comes together very quickly, so have all your mise en place (prep work, basically) done.

2. 2

   In a small mixing bowl, stir together the soft butter, chives, and lemon zest. Do not butter the baguette slices before broiling them. Chives are quite delicate, and the warmth of the grilled bread is just perfect for both melting the butter and for bringing out the bright flavor of the chives and lemon zest. Set the slices of baguette on a baking sheet not lined with parchment. Broil both sides of the slices to a deep golden brown. When done, remove from the oven and spread each side with the butter-chive-lemon mixture. Keep any leftover butter; it will be wonderful on toast with a poached egg resting on top.

3. 3

   While the bread is broiling, begin heating stock to a simmer. Add the onion scapes. Cook only as long as it takes for the scapes to heat through; they want to retain some of their tender crunch.

4. 4

   In a small heatproof bowl whisk together eggs and lemon juice. Temper in a ladle of hot soup, whisking all the while. Slowly whisk egg mixture back into the soup. It will take on a lovely, silken consistency. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

5. 5

   Ladle soup into bowls, and dip a crostini into each one.

No additional tips available.