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Caramelized Onions

Caramelized Onions Recipe: Powerful Guide to Sweet, Rich Flavor in a Pan

  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Caramelized onions are a sweet, savory, and rich addition to nearly every dish. With just onions, oil, and a bit of patience, you can create a flavor-packed topping for everything from burgers to soups. Whether you’re preparing a dish for your next family meal or a casual gathering, these slow-cooked onions bring a magical touch to your cooking.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients for Caramelized Onions

  • 2 large yellow or sweet onions (about 600g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or use broth for an oil-free version)
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • Optional: fresh thyme, rosemary, or bay leaf
  • Optional: splash of balsamic vinegar or pinch of sugar to deepen flavor

Instructions

  1. Slice the onions: Slice the onions evenly into thin half-moons. Uniform slicing ensures even cooking.
  2. Heat olive oil: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and stir to coat.
  3. Cook undisturbed: Spread onions out evenly in the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for 5 to 8 minutes to develop color.
  4. Reduce heat: Sprinkle with salt, reduce heat to medium-low, and begin stirring every 5 to 10 minutes.
  5. Deglaze if necessary: If the onions stick, deglaze the pan with a splash of water or broth, scraping up the browned bits.
  6. Continue cooking: Continue cooking for 40 to 50 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions are deep golden brown and jammy.
  7. Finish with herbs: In the final 5 minutes, stir in optional herbs or a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Patience is key: Caramelizing onions takes time—don’t rush the process!
  • Uniform slicing: Slice onions evenly to prevent burning.
  • Avoid overcrowding: Ensure the pan isn’t overcrowded to avoid steaming the onions.
  • Deglaze regularly: If the pan gets too sticky, deglaze with water or broth to build depth.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 cup
  • Calories: 60
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Caramelized Onions, Sweet Onions, Onion Topping, Sautéed Onions, Caramelized Onion Recipe

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