Ingredients
- 900g (2 lbs) yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 60ml (1/4 cup) olive oil or unsalted butter
- 15ml (1 tbsp) balsamic vinegar
- 5g (1 tsp) sea salt
- 5g (1 tsp) sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Onions
Begin by peeling the onions and slicing them into thin, even rings. This uniformity in size ensures that they cook evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Onions
In a large heavy-bottomed skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions to the pan, stirring to coat them in the oil or butter. Season with salt.
Step 3: Caramelization Process
Reduce the heat to low and cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally. This process should take about 45 minutes to an hour. Be patient and avoid increasing the heat to speed up the process, as this might result in burning instead of caramelization.
Step 4: Add Balsamic & Sugar (optional)
Once the onions have turned a deep amber color and have a sweet aroma, stir in the balsamic vinegar and sugar (if using). Continue to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the mixture is thick and glossy.
Step 5: Blend to Perfection
Transfer the caramelized onions to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth to form a paste. You may need to stop occasionally to scrape down the sides and ensure everything is evenly blended.
Step 6: Season and Store
Taste the onion paste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and freshly ground black pepper if needed. Transfer to an airtight container and let it cool before storing in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
You’ve now crafted a luxurious caramelized onion paste that adds an umami-packed richness to any dish. This paste is a testament to the transformative power of simple ingredients cooked with care. Whether you spread it on a sandwich, stir it into pasta, or use it as a surprising addition to a cheese board, your homemade caramelized onion paste is sure to impress and elevate your culinary creations. Enjoy exploring the possibilities and sharing this mouth-watering velvety goodness with family and friends!
