Caramelized onions are one of those ingredients that can elevate any dish, adding a deep, rich flavor with just the right amount of sweetness. Ella Chef first fell in love with caramelized onions during a cozy dinner party where they were served as a topping on a perfectly seared steak. The combination of the tender, golden onions and the savory meat was magical. After that evening, Ella was determined to perfect her caramelizing technique, and she quickly learned how versatile caramelized onions could be, from burgers to pizzas, and even as a side dish. They’ve since become a go-to addition in her kitchen.
Caramelized Onions Recipe
Caramelized Onions
Ingredients
Method
- Peel and slice the onions thinly. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat until melted and hot.
- Add the sliced onions to the pan, stirring to coat with the oil and butter.
- Reduce the heat to low and cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 40 minutes, or until they are soft and caramelized. Add salt and sugar (if using) halfway through the cooking process to help enhance the caramelization.
- Once the onions are golden brown and deeply caramelized, remove from heat and serve immediately or store for later use.
Nutrition
Notes
How to Make Caramelized Onions
Caramelized onions are a simple yet transformative addition to any dish. To start, peel and slice the onions thinly. The key to perfect caramelized onions is patience, so take your time with the process. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onions and stir to coat them evenly in the oil and butter mixture.
After the onions are in the pan, reduce the heat to low. The slow cooking process is essential for the rich, sweet flavor you want to achieve. Stir the onions occasionally to ensure they cook evenly, but don’t rush the process. This step will take about 40 minutes. Halfway through, add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor and sugar if you want to increase the sweetness of the caramelization.
As the onions cook, they will begin to soften and turn golden brown. The sugar in the onions will start to break down, creating a beautiful deep caramel color and rich flavor. Once the onions are fully caramelized and have reached a deep golden-brown color, they’re ready. Remove from the heat and use them immediately or store them for later use.
These caramelized onions are versatile and can be added to sandwiches, burgers, pizzas, pastas, or even served as a side dish. Their rich, sweet flavor will elevate any meal.
Conclusion
Caramelized onions are an easy yet delicious way to enhance the flavor of many dishes. Their sweet and savory profile adds depth and richness, making them a perfect topping for savory dishes like burgers, steaks, and pizzas. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create this flavorful addition in no time. Whether you use them as a topping or in a dish, caramelized onions will always be a hit!