Perfect Caramelized Onions Recipe

Introduction

Caramelized onions bring a rich, sweet depth of flavor to any dish. With a little patience, you can transform simple yellow onions into golden, jammy perfection that elevates sandwiches, burgers, and more.

Ingredients

• 3 large yellow onions
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons water (as needed)
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Peel and slice the onions thinly and evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
2. Step 2: Heat the butter in a wide, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
3. Step 3: Add the sliced onions, stir to coat with butter, and spread them evenly in the pan.
4. Step 4: Let the onions cook, stirring every few minutes as they soften and release moisture.
5. Step 5: After about 15 minutes, reduce the heat slightly and continue cooking.
6. Step 6: Stir regularly and add a splash of water to deglaze the pan if the onions start to stick.
7. Step 7: Continue cooking for 40–50 minutes until the onions are deep brown and jammy.
8. Step 8: Stir in the balsamic vinegar at the end for an optional flavor boost.
9. Step 9: Let the caramelized onions cool or serve immediately as desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use a wide pan to allow the onions to cook evenly and avoid overcrowding.
• Add a pinch of sugar early on to enhance caramelization if desired.
• Try substituting balsamic vinegar with red wine or sherry vinegar for a different flavor twist.

Storage

Store caramelized onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave before using to preserve their rich flavor and texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I caramelize onions faster?

While you can increase the heat to speed up the process, the onions may burn or taste bitter. Slow cooking over medium to low heat yields the best sweetness and texture.

Can I freeze caramelized onions?

Yes, caramelized onions freeze well. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently before use.

Perfect Caramelized Onions Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 71 reviews

• Author: Matteo
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 1 serving 1x

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Description

This recipe guides you through the process of making perfect caramelized onions, resulting in deeply flavorful, sweet, and tender onions that are ideal as a topping or ingredient in a variety of dishes. Slowly cooked in butter and finished with optional balsamic vinegar, these caramelized onions add rich depth to your meals.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Onions

• 3 large yellow onions

Cooking Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons water (as needed)
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare Onions: Peel and slice the onions thinly and evenly to ensure consistent cooking throughout.
2. Heat Butter: Place a wide, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat and melt the butter evenly to prevent burning during cooking.
3. Add Onions: Add the sliced onions to the melted butter, stirring to coat all pieces, then spread them evenly across the pan’s surface.
4. Initial Cooking: Let the onions cook, stirring every few minutes as they soften and release their moisture to avoid burning and ensure even caramelization.
5. Reduce Heat: After about 15 minutes, reduce the heat slightly to allow slower cooking and deeper browning without scorching.
6. Continue Cooking: Stir regularly and add a splash of water to deglaze the pan if the onions start to stick, helping to lift the flavorful browned bits and prevent burning.
7. Finish Caramelizing: Continue cooking for an additional 40 to 50 minutes until the onions become deep brown, soft, and jammy in texture.
8. Add Flavor Boost: Stir in the optional balsamic vinegar at the end to add a subtle tangy sweetness that enhances the caramelized flavor.
9. Serve: Allow the onions to cool or serve immediately as a delicious addition to your favorite dishes.

Notes

• Use a wide, heavy-bottomed pan to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• Stir frequently, especially towards the end, to avoid scorching.
• Adjust water quantity as needed to deglaze the pan and maintain moisture.
• Caramelized onions can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week and frozen for longer storage.
• Balsamic vinegar is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: caramelized onions, onions recipe, slow cooked onions, side dish, sweet onions