How caramelized onion is made (and delicious recipes where to add it)

The caramelized onion it is a versatile and delicious ingredient that adds a sweet and mild flavor to a wide variety of dishes.

In this article, we will explore in detail how to make caramelized onionI will share some tips and tricks to get the best results and I will present you some delicious vegan recipes in which you can incorporate it.

Caramelized onion: recipe

Caramelizing onion requires time and patience to achieve that characteristic sweet and smooth flavor. Here I present one step by step guide to making caramelized onion:

INGREDIENTS:

3 large onionscut into thin slices2 tablespoons of olive oilSalt and pepper to taste

PREPARATION:

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil.Add the onion slices and cook slowly for a few 30-40 minutesuncovered, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden in color. Continue cooking for another few 5 minutes, stirring constantlyuntil the onions finish caramelizing and acquire a dark brown color. If necessary, lower the heat. Remove the pan from the heat and season the caramelized onions with salt and pepper to taste. Let the caramelized onions cool before using them in your vegan recipes.

How to make caramelized onion

The onion acquires that texture, color and flavor thanks to the caramelization and Maillard reactions.

Onions are very high in carbohydrates, and when put on the fire they will caramelize and give rise to a wide range of aromas and sweet flavors. This caramelization is produced by sugar oxidation, just like when we make caramel. That’s why I recommend sweeter varieties of onion.

The Maillard reactions are produced by reaction of sugars with proteins. Instead of caramel smell and taste, they are golden, roasted and toasted aromas and flavors. The onion has very little protein, but we can enhance these reactions by:

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raise the pH: add a pinch of baking soda to the onions. About 1/8 teaspoon every 2 onions. It will not affect the taste.High sugar content: what many people usually do is add in the last 5-10 minutes a little bit of brown sugar or molasses. The onion caramelizes on its own, but we can speed it up by adding sugar halfway through cooking and always keeping the heat low so it doesn’t burn.long cooking time: better over low heat, we do not want them to brown on the outside, but remain soft on the inside. Adding the baking soda and then the sugar will save about 15 minutes of cooking. If not, it will be about 45 minutes.Lower the water content: once the onions have been cut, dry them a little if they have released juice. And cook them without covering the pan. Remember Stir occasionallythis way we prevent water vapor from condensing between the onion pieces.

Tricks and Tips for the Perfect Caramelized Onion

If you want your caramelized onion to be perfect in both texture and flavor, take note of these tips:

Choose sweet onions: Opt for sweet onion varieties, such as white onion or Vidalia onionto obtain the best results in terms of flavor.Cut the onions finely: Slicing the onions thinly will ensure even cooking and a softer result.Cook over low and slow heat: Cooking the onions over low and slow heat allows the natural sugars are gradually releasedcreating that sweet and caramel flavor.Add a touch of acidity: add a pinch of balsamic or lemon vinegar at the end of cooking it will bring out the flavors of the caramelized onion even more.Prepare large quantities: caramelized onion keeps well in the fridgeso you can prepare a large quantity and use it in different recipes throughout the week.

Level up your recipes with caramelized onion

Don’t know which dishes to add caramelized onion to? The possibilities are endless. We give you some ideas:

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gourmet vegan pizza: Put caramelized onion between ingredients so it doesn’t dry out in the oven. For example, before the vegan cheese (if you use it) or on top of the tomato sauce.gourmet vegan burger: place a vegan burger on a toasted bun and add caramelized onion, sliced avocado, arugula and a vegan for example. Enjoy an irresistible combination of flavors.Vegan tart with caramelized onion and cherry tomatoes: prepare a dough for empanada, brisa or vegan puff pastry and spread it in a mold. Add caramelized onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs. Bake until the pastry is golden brown and the tomatoes have softened.Vegan toast with caramelized onion and vegan cheese: toast slices of whole wheat bread and spread them with vegan cheese. Add caramelized onion and sprinkle with toasted, peeled sunflower seeds for a crisp touch.Caramelized onion and beetroot salad: Combines caramelized onion with sliced roasted beets, toasted walnuts and fresh spinach leaves. Dress with a mustard vinaigrette and enjoy a tasty and nutritious salad.Salad with caramelized onion: make a vegan Russian salad and serve it in individual portions (with a plating ring, for example) crowning it with caramelized onion.