Make your own croutons to serve with this soup. Cut thick slices of black bread into cubes. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and pepper, then broil until browned.

1. Thinly slice the onions. Slowly sauté in butter in pan over low heat until browned.

2. Add onions, broth, salt, and peppercorns to the slow cooker.

3. Cover and heat on a low setting for 3 to 4 hours.

4. Grate the Parmesan. Before serving, stir ¼ cup grated cheese into the soup. Set out the remainder to garnish individual servings.