Guiness French Onion Soup: 1. Slice onions lengthwise to form strips. 2. Mix with 1 tablespoon olive oil and garlic. 3. In a large saucepan, cook onion mixture on low hear until onions are soft. 4. In a large stock pot, bring 1 gallon of water to a boil. 5. At a boil, and beef base and chicken consomme. 6. Mix in basil and stir well. 7. Add cooked onions with garlic and oil, directly into water mixture. 8. Return to a boil. 9. When boiling begins, add Guinness. 10. Return to a boil and then let cool. 11. Add salt and pepper to taste. 12. Croutons: 13. Melt butter in microwave or saucepan. 14. In a bowl, add bread cubes and pour butter over top. Season with salt, pepper, oregano and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. 15. Toast croutons in a 425° until lightly brown and crisp. 16. To serve soup, put into a heat-safe soup bowl. Top with croutons and 2 slices provolone cheese. 17. Put bowl(s) on a cookie sheet and bake in a 425° oven for 2–4 minutes until soup heats and cheese browns.