Description
This classic recipe for caramelized onions transforms simple onions into a rich, sweet, and deeply flavorful topping perfect for enhancing a variety of dishes. Slowly cooked with butter and olive oil, and perfectly salted to draw out natural sugars, these caramelized onions add a savory-sweet depth to burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, and more.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 3 medium onions
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp butter
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- Slice: Peel the onions and slice them into even strips to ensure uniform cooking.
- Melt fats: In a pan over medium-high heat, melt the butter together with the olive oil.
- Coat onions: Add the sliced onions to the pan and use tongs to coat them evenly with the melted butter and oil mixture.
- Season: Sprinkle salt over the onions to help release their moisture, which aids in the caramelization process.
- Cook initially: Allow the onions to cook at medium-high heat for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to turn golden brown.
- Lower heat: Reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent burning or sticking.
- Finish: When the onions have reached a deep golden brown color and have a sweet aroma, they are done and ready to serve.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan for more even heat distribution.
- Stir frequently once the heat is lowered to avoid burning the onions.
- Caramelizing onions takes time but yields the best flavor — patience is key.
- Leftover caramelized onions can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For enhanced sweetness, a pinch of sugar can be added before cooking, though it’s not necessary.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
