Rich & Sweet Caramelized Onions: A Flavorful Guide
How to Make Delicious Caramelized Onions at Home
Slow-cooked to a deep brown, these onions develop an incredible sweetness and rich flavor. They are a versatile ingredient perfect for elevating steaks, burgers, sandwiches, pasta, and more.
Ingredients
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced or finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by peeling the onions, then trim off the root end and stem. Slice them thinly into half-moons or finely chop them, depending on your preference for texture. Sliced onions will offer a slightly softer bite, while chopped onions can yield a more concentrated flavor.
Step 2
Place a heavy-bottomed skillet or pot over medium-low heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add all of the prepared onions to the pan. Season generously with a pinch of salt and black pepper. The salt will help draw out moisture from the onions, aiding in the caramelization process.
Step 3
Maintain the heat at medium-low and stir the onions occasionally as they cook. Initially, the onions will release moisture and appear quite wet. Continue cooking, stirring every few minutes, allowing the moisture to evaporate. You’ll notice the onions starting to soften and turn a pale golden color. This initial cooking phase should take about 15-20 minutes.
Step 4
As the onions begin to brown, bits of sugar will start to caramelize and stick to the bottom of the pan. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently scrape these flavorful bits up and incorporate them back into the onions. This deglazing action is crucial for developing a deep, complex flavor. Continue to cook and stir, scraping the bottom of the pan as needed, for another 10-20 minutes, or until the onions reach your desired deep brown, rich color and a tender, sweet consistency. Don’t rush this final stage; patience is key to achieving perfect caramelization.
