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French Onion Soup-Style Melting Onions

French Onion Soup-Style Melting Onions
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French Onion Soup-Style Melting Onions are deeply caramelized, tender onions cooked slowly to develop rich, sweet, and savory flavors. Perfect as a versatile topping or a delicious side, these melt-in-your-mouth onions elevate any dish with luxurious texture and aromatic depth.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 large yellow onions, peeled and thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thickness)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or sherry (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Herbs and Flavors

  • 1–2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 bay leaf
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onions: Peel and slice the onions thinly and evenly, approximately 1/8 inch thick, to ensure even cooking and achieve the signature melting texture.
  2. Heat Butter and Oil: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the butter and olive oil together over medium-low heat until melted and shimmering, creating a rich base that prevents burning.
  3. Add the Onions: Add the sliced onions to the pan and stir gently to coat them evenly with the butter and oil. Reduce the heat to low for slow caramelization.
  4. Cook Slowly: Let the onions cook slowly, stirring every 5 to 7 minutes. This process takes about 45 to 60 minutes and is crucial to develop a deep golden color and sweet flavor without burning.
  5. Add Broth and Seasonings: Once the onions are well caramelized and tender, pour in the broth and white wine or sherry if using. Stir to deglaze the pan and infuse the onions with savory depth. Season with salt, pepper, and add herbs like thyme or bay leaf as desired.
  6. Simmer and Finish: Let the mixture simmer gently on low heat for about 10 minutes until the liquid reduces and the onions become luscious and melting. Remove herbs before serving.

Notes

  • Low and slow cooking is essential to unlock the best flavor and texture.
  • Use a wide pan to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming.
  • Stir occasionally, not constantly, to allow caramelization to develop properly.
  • A small pinch of sugar can help speed up caramelization if onions are not sweet enough.
  • Always deglaze the pan with broth or wine to incorporate flavorful browned bits.
  • For a vegan version, use olive oil exclusively and substitute vegetable broth.
  • Optional additions like garlic, smoked paprika, rosemary, or sage can add unique flavor variations.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently over low heat or in short microwave bursts to maintain silky texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: French onion soup onions, caramelized onions, melting onions, slow cooked onions, appetizer topping, caramelized onion recipe

Find it online: https://marysplate.com/french-onion-soup-style-melting-onions/