How to Slowly Caramelize Onions

1. 1

   Prep Your Onions

   5 min

   Peel and slice 2-3 large onions (yellow or sweet varieties work best) into thin, uniform half-moons.

2. 2

   Heat Pan & Fat

   2 min

   Melt 2 tablespoons of butter or a mix of butter and olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat.

3. 3

   Initial Sauté

   10 min

   Add all sliced onions to the pan, stir to coat them with the fat, and cook until they soften and become translucent.

4. 4

   Reduce Heat & Cook Slowly

   45 min

   Lower the heat to medium-low, stir thoroughly, and continue cooking, stirring every 5-10 minutes to prevent sticking.

5. 5

   Develop Deep Color

   45 min

   Maintain low heat and keep cooking patiently until the onions turn a deep, even golden brown, becoming very tender and sweet.

6. 6

   Deglaze (Optional)

   3 min

   If any bits stick to the bottom, add a tablespoon of water, broth, or wine to scrape them up and incorporate them for more flavor.