How to Caramelize Onions

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If you’ve ever wondered how to Caramelize Onions, this recipe is for you! Cooking onions low and slow will give you perfectly sweet caramelized onions every time.

Caramelizing onions is one of those kitchen techniques that you hear about a lot. This is because caramelized onions are one way to build a ton of flavor in so many different recipes. Caramelized French Onion Dip is one of our family favorites. And this steak with bourbon caramelized onions is one of my go-to dinners for date night at home.

Caramelized onions add such a sweet, complex flavor to so many dishes. What many people don’t realize however, is that a true caramelized onion takes time. It is not going to be a simple quick cook in the pan, that would be sautéed onions. Instead, caramelized onions will take at least 30 minutes.

But don’t let that discourage you, once you get the technique down, you’ll be adding them to everything. Let’s talk about what you’ll need to make them.

Caramelized Onions Ingredients:

With this recipe the star of the show is, you guessed it, onions. And you really want them to shine, so you don’t need a ton of other ingredients to add flavor.

• ONIONS: You can caramelize any type of onion but, with that said, yellow onion or Spanish onions are going to give you the most balanced flavor.
• BUTTER/OLIVE OIL: I like using a combination of the two when making caramelized onions. The butter adds an amazing flavor while the olive oil can tolerate heat a little bit better.
• SALT: To bring out the flavor of the onions.

How to Caramelize Onions Step by Step Photos and Instructions:

The key to making perfectly caramelized onions is to cook them low and slow. This isn’t a quick 10 minute recipe. These take a bit of time but trust me, they are worth it.

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• STEP #1: Slice onions into 1/2 inch slices. You don’t want to cut them too thin or they will burn easily.
• STEP #2: Heat butter and oil together in a large heavy bottomed skillet (I like to use cast iron) over medium heat until the butter melts.
• STEP #3: Once the butter melts add the sliced onions. Once they start to sweat, reduce the heat to low and cook. Stirring occasionally until they are brown and caramelized. This will take time, 30 – 40 minutes so plan accordingly.
• STEP #4: Season the onions to taste with salt.

Caramelized onions are great when added to burgers, sandwiches and even salads.

Storage and Leftovers:

Store any leftover caramelized onions in an air tight container in the refrigerator for up to a month. You can also store them in the freezer for about 2 months.

Love onions but want more ways to use them? Try these other recipes where onions are the star!

Quick Pickled Red Onions are a must for tacos!

Fried Onion Rings are everyones favorite pub appetizer but can also be made at home!