How to Make Caramelized Onions
These caramelized onions are irresistibly sweet and savory! Perfectly golden and soft, they elevate any dish with rich, deep flavor and simple ingredients.
Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 cup water more if needed
Instructions
- Peel the onions and slice them thinly into uniform half-moon shapes.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter in a large skillet over medium heat until it foams and turns slightly golden.
- Add the sliced onions to the skillet and stir gently to coat them evenly with the butter.
- Cook the onions over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften and become translucent.
- Add 1 cup of water to the skillet to deglaze and prevent sticking, then continue cooking while stirring occasionally for 30 to 40 minutes until the onions caramelize.
- Once the onions are deeply golden and sweet, remove from heat and season with salt and pepper if desired.
Notes
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar during the last minutes for a tangy twist.
- Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added fragrance.
- Mix in brown sugar to boost sweetness if preferred.
- Use olive oil or ghee instead of butter for different flavor profiles.
- Store cooled onions in an airtight container in the fridge up to one week or freeze for up to three months.