Thyme-Infused Caramelized Vidalia Onions
Elevate your dishes with these luscious, caramelized Vidalia onions infused with thyme. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the onions, creating a rich and savory condiment that pairs beautifully with meats, cheeses, or as a flavor-packed addition to sandwiches. Using a mandolin for slicing ensures even cooking and perfectly uniform pieces. The addition of sherry wine vinegar balances the sweetness, while the fresh thyme adds an aromatic layer to this delightful treat. Perfect for meal prep or as a gourmet touch to your everyday cuisine.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Olive Oil
2 tablespoons (none)
Unsalted Butter
2 tablespoons (none)
Yellow Onions
2 lbs (peeled and sliced in half-rounds)
Fresh Thyme Leaves
1/2 teaspoon (fresh)
Sherry Wine Vinegar
2 tablespoons (none)
Kosher Salt
1 teaspoon (none)
Fresh Ground Black Pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
1. In a large shallow pot, heat the olive oil and unsalted butter over medium-low heat until melted.
2
2. Add the sliced yellow onions and fresh thyme leaves to the pot, tossing them to coat well with the oil and butter.
3
3. Cover the pot with a lid and allow the onions to sweat for approximately 10 minutes.
4
4. After 10 minutes, remove the lid and reduce the heat if necessary to prevent the onions from cooking too quickly. Cook the onions uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become deeply caramelized and golden brown. This process may take longer depending on your stove, so be patient and avoid rushing it.
5
5. Once caramelized, add the sherry wine vinegar, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the onions. Stir well!
6
6. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning as preferred.
7
7. Once ready, remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving or storing.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Thyme-Infused Caramelized Vidalia Onions?
They are a rich and savory condiment made by slowly cooking Vidalia onions until sweet and golden, flavored with fresh thyme and sherry vinegar.
What type of onions should I use?
The recipe specifically calls for 2 lbs of yellow onions, with Vidalia onions being preferred for their natural sweetness.
How should I slice the onions for this recipe?
The onions should be peeled and sliced into half-rounds, ideally using a mandolin to ensure perfectly uniform pieces.
Why is a mandolin recommended for slicing?
A mandolin ensures even cooking because all the onion pieces are the same thickness.
What fats are used for sautéing the onions?
The recipe uses a combination of 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make it vegan by replacing the unsalted butter with an equal amount of olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
What is the first step in cooking the onions?
The first step is to heat the oil and butter in a large shallow pot over medium-low heat until melted.
How long should I sweat the onions?
The onions should be covered with a lid and allowed to sweat for approximately 10 minutes.
Why do I need to cover the pot during the initial cooking phase?
Covering the pot allows the onions to release moisture and soften without browning too quickly.
How long does the caramelization process take?
After sweating, the onions should cook uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until deeply caramelized.
What temperature should I use to caramelize the onions?
The onions should be cooked over medium-low heat to ensure the sugars brown slowly without burning.
How often should I stir the onions?
You should stir the onions occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even browning throughout the pot.
What role does sherry wine vinegar play in this recipe?
Sherry wine vinegar provides acidity that balances the natural sweetness of the caramelized onions.
Can I substitute the sherry wine vinegar?
Yes, you can use balsamic vinegar or white wine vinegar as a substitute if sherry vinegar is not available.
When should I add the salt and pepper?
Add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper once the onions have finished caramelizing.
How much fresh thyme is required?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves added during the initial cooking stage.
Can I use dried thyme instead of fresh?
Yes, but use about 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme since it is more potent than fresh leaves.
What should I do with the brown bits at the bottom of the pot?
You should scrape those brown bits into the onions after adding the vinegar, as they contain concentrated flavor.
How do I store the finished caramelized onions?
Let them cool slightly and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How long will these onions keep in the fridge?
They can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 to 7 days.
Can caramelized onions be frozen?
Yes, they freeze very well in airtight bags or containers for up to 3 months.
What dishes pair well with these onions?
They are excellent with grilled meats, on top of burgers, paired with soft cheeses, or added to sandwiches.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely; they are a gourmet touch that can be made ahead of time to enhance various meals throughout the week.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use red onions instead of yellow?
You can, though red onions will have a slightly different flavor and the final color will be much darker.
Why use a shallow pot?
A shallow pot allows for better evaporation of moisture, which helps the onions caramelize more efficiently.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time or use a much wider pan to avoid overcrowding.
How do I reheat the onions?
Reheat them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for 30-45 seconds until warm.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat products.