Description

Caramelized onions are slowly cooked to bring out their natural sweetness and rich, golden flavor, perfect for enhancing a wide variety of dishes such as soups, sandwiches, and sauces. This simple recipe uses just onions, oil or butter, and salt to achieve a deep, savory sweetness with a luscious texture.

Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients

2 large yellow onions, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick)
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1/2 teaspoon salt

Optional Ingredients

1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to accelerate caramelization)
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for added depth and tang)

Instructions

Prepare Your Onions: Peel the onions and slice them evenly into thin strips approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick to ensure uniform cooking and caramelization.
Heat the Pan: Place a wide, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil or butter. Allow it to melt completely, coating the pan evenly to prevent sticking.
Add the Onions: Spread the sliced onions in a single, even layer in the pan, allowing space for moisture to evaporate for proper caramelization instead of steaming.
Season and Stir: Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the onions and stir gently to distribute it. This helps draw out moisture and enhances flavor.
Low and Slow Cooking: Reduce the heat to low or medium-low and cook the onions slowly for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring every few minutes. Patience is essential to prevent burning and allow natural sugars to develop.
Optional Enhancements: Around halfway through cooking, add sugar or balsamic vinegar if desired to deepen sweetness and add complexity without overpowering.
Finish and Store: Once the onions turn a rich amber color and taste sweet, remove from heat. Use immediately or allow to cool before storing.

Notes

Use a heavy-bottomed pan to distribute heat evenly and avoid burning.
Be patient; avoid high heat as slow cooking develops better flavor.
Stir occasionally but not constantly to allow caramelization.
If the pan dries out or bits stick, deglaze with a splash of water, broth, or wine.
Slice onions uniformly for even cooking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 to 45 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Stovetop

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Calories: 45
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 150 mg
Fat: 4 g
Saturated Fat: 0.6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 5 g
Fiber: 0.7 g
Protein: 0.5 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: caramelized onions, slow cooked onions, sweet onions, savory garnish, kitchen staple