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Caramelized Onions

Caramelized Onions

  • Author: Nina Johnson
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: About 1 cup 1x
  • Category: Side Dish / Condiment
  • Method: Sauté
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Caramelized onions are a deeply flavorful addition to countless dishes—from burgers and pizzas to dips and pastas. Made by slowly cooking down onions until they reach a soft, golden-brown perfection, these are a simple yet magical way to elevate your meals. A mix of butter and olive oil gives them richness, while optional balsamic vinegar adds tang and depth.


Ingredients

Scale

3 large yellow onions

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)


Instructions

1. Peel and thinly slice the onions into even pieces.

2. Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

3. Add the onions and stir to coat them in the fats.

4. Spread them evenly in the pan and allow them to cook, stirring every few minutes.

5. Reduce the heat to medium-low once they begin to brown.

6. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for 30 to 45 minutes.

7. Add salt early in the process to draw out moisture.

8. Optionally add sugar halfway through if you want extra sweetness.

9. Once golden brown and jammy, deglaze the pan with balsamic vinegar or water.

10. Remove from heat and use immediately, or store as needed.


Notes

Stir gently and regularly to prevent onions from sticking or burning.

For richer depth, use balsamic vinegar right at the end.

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze in portions for future use.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
  • Calories: 45
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 3.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 0.5g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: caramelized onions, sautéed onions, onion topping