how to caramelize onions
How to Caramelize Onions
Onions are rich in sugars that can be caramelized to bring out a rich, sweet, savory flavor. Caramelized onions can be used in dips, sauces, soups, and various other dishes.
- Peel and cut three to four onions into halves. Once done, place them on the cutting board, with the flat side facing downwards. Slice the onion into strips. While thin slices are easy to cook, even thicker ones can be caramelized.
- Take a thick-bottomed frying pan, and place it over low heat. Add two to three tablespoons of olive oil or butter into the pan. Butter is more flavorful, but it can get burned. If you are using butter, make sure to keep the heat as low as possible. You may also use a mixture of both butter and olive oil.
- As the oil or butter gets hot, add the sliced onions, and cook on low heat. Stir at regular intervals, so that the onions don't get burned.
- Gradually, the onion slices will become translucent, and change to golden brown and deep brown. Once they reach a deep amber color, remove the pan from the stove. Your caramelized onions are ready.
- You may fasten the process of caramelizing by adding one or two pinches of salt, while cooking. Onions contain moisture that is suck out by the salt. This moisture will evaporate while cooking. Even thinner slices can make your job faster.
- If the slices are sticking to the pan, then add a small amount of wine or vinegar (or even water), so as to loosen them.