Zuppa Pavese (Pavia Soup)

Serves 6

3 tablespoons (2oz/60 g) butter
6 slices firm, coarse-textured bread
6 cups (1/2 qt/1.5l) meat or chicken broth (stock)- Note: must be a clear broth
6 eggs
freshly ground pepper
6 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1. Melt the butter in a saucepan and fry the bread slices on both sides until golden brown. Divide among 6 soup bowls. Place bowls in an oven which has been preheated to 350° (180°C) and turned off.
2. Meanwhile, bring broth to boil, adding salt if necessary. Break an egg onto each side of bread, pour the boiling broth over it and add pepper to taste. Sprinkle the Parmesan. Garnish with chopped parsley and a little grated nutmeg if desired and serve.