Caramelized onions

 Caramelized onions are deeply flavorful, sweet, and savory—perfect for adding richness to a wide range of dishes. Here's a complete guide to making and using them:

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🧅 How to Make Caramelized Onions (Slow Method)

📝 Ingredients:

• 2–3 large yellow or red onions (sliced thinly)

• 1–2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• Pinch of salt

• Optional: splash of balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, or a few thyme sprigs

🍳 Steps:

1. Heat oil or butter in a wide pan over medium-low heat.

2. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat evenly.

3. Cook slowly—30 to 45 minutes—stirring every 5–10 minutes.

4. Onions will turn golden, then deep brown and jammy.

5. Optional: In the last 5 minutes, stir in balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to enhance the depth.

🔄 Tip: Don’t rush it! High heat will burn, not caramelize.

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⏱️ Quick Version (if in a hurry)

• Add a pinch of baking soda (1/8 tsp) after 5 minutes to speed up browning—but use sparingly to avoid bitterness.

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🍽️ How to Use Caramelized Onions

🍔 Sandwiches & Burgers:

• Add richness to burgers, grilled cheese, paninis, or wraps.

🍝 Pasta:

• Toss into creamy pasta, carbonara-style dishes, or pesto pasta for extra sweetness.

🍕 Pizza & Flatbreads:

• Pair with goat cheese, mushrooms, or figs for gourmet pizza toppings.

🥗 Salads & Grain Bowls:

• Use as a topping in warm salads, quinoa bowls, or couscous.

🧁 Savory Tarts:

• Essential in French onion tart, galettes, or quiche.

🥣 Soups & Dips:

• Base for French onion soup or swirled into hummus or labneh.

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🧊 Storage

• Refrigerate for up to 5 days in a sealed container.

• Freeze in small portions (ice cube tray or zip bag) for quick use.