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Caramelized Onions

Caramelized Onions
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Caramelized Onions transform simple onions into sweet, golden, deeply flavored treasures through slow cooking. This easy, versatile recipe enhances a variety of dishes from burgers and pizzas to soups and savory tarts with rich, complex sweetness and tender texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 to 4 large yellow onions (preferred for natural sweetness and balanced flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil (or a mix, for richness and even cooking)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (to enhance sweetness and draw out moisture)

Optional Ingredients

  • A pinch of sugar (to speed up caramelization, if desired)
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or wine (for sweet-tart depth, added near end)
  • Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (toss in halfway through cooking for aroma)
  • Pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika (for a spicy kick)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onions: Peel the onions and slice them thinly and evenly to ensure uniform cooking and prevent burning or undercooked pieces.
  2. Heat Your Pan: Warm a wide skillet or sauté pan over medium-low heat and melt butter or heat oil gently to provide even, slow cooking.
  3. Add the Onions and Salt: Toss the sliced onions into the pan and sprinkle with salt; this helps draw moisture out and sets the stage for caramelization.
  4. Cook Low and Slow: Let the onions cook uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking or burning while allowing natural sugars to slowly develop their sweet, golden color.
  5. Optional Additions: Once the onions are soft and golden, add any optional flavor boosters like balsamic vinegar, wine, herbs, or spices and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to blend the flavors.
  6. Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and let the caramelized onions cool slightly. Use immediately to enhance your dishes or store in an airtight container for future use.

Notes

  • Use medium-low heat to avoid scorching; patience is key for deep caramelization.
  • A wide, heavy-bottomed skillet provides even heat distribution and room for onions to brown.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan to prevent steaming instead of caramelizing.
  • Stir onions regularly every few minutes for even cooking and to prevent burning.
  • Add a pinch of sugar only if you want to speed the process; too much can make onions overly sweet.
  • Deglaze the pan with a splash of water or wine if brown bits start to stick.
  • Yellow onions are recommended for their perfect sugar content and balanced flavor.
  • Caramelized onions keep in the refrigerator for up to one week and can be frozen for up to three months.
  • Reheat gently using low heat on the stovetop or short microwave bursts with added water or oil to maintain softness.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramelized onions, onions, sweet onions, side dish, appetizer, versatile recipe, slow cooking, savory, vegan option

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/caramelized-onions/