how to caramelize onions

To caramelize onions properly, follow these key steps:

1. Slice the onions thinly and evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
2. Heat oil (such as olive oil) and optional butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the sliced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they start to soften.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low or low and continue to cook the onions slowly, stirring every few minutes. If the onions start to stick or burn, lower the heat and add a splash of water to prevent drying out.
5. Continue cooking for about 50 to 80 minutes until the onions are deeply browned, soft, and caramelized. The process is low and slow to bring out the onions’ natural sugars and rich flavor.
6. Season with a pinch of salt at the start or during cooking to enhance flavor. Adding a pinch of sugar is optional to boost sweetness.
7. Once caramelized, use the onions in dips, soups, sandwiches, pasta, pizza, or with eggs.

Storage tips: Caramelized onions keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for up to 3 months. This process is simple but requires patience to achieve rich, sweet, and savory caramelized onions.