How to Caramelize Onions in 15 minutes

Time is key to smoky and sweet caramelized onions. It can take anywhere between 45 minutes to over an hour to achieve great tasting caramelized onions. Sometimes, we just do not have that much time to spare. So here is a short cut to caramelize onions in 15 minutes.

The result is delicious, soft onions that can be used for hot dogs, pizza, salads, sandwiches, pasta or appetizers. The only thing that Serious Eats (who posted this recipe) advised against using this recipe for is French Onion Soup. For that you will need some advance planning and a lot of time to spare.

I love this recipe since it is quick enough that you can make on a weeknight!

Ingredients
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 to 3 large onions, sliced thinly
1/2 cup water
Salt, to taste

Directions
1. In a cast iron skillet or heavy bottomed stainless steel pan, melt butter and vegetable oil over high heat.

2. Add onions to the pan and cook, stirring frequently for about 5 minutes.

3. Pour in 2 tablespoons of water and stir frequently. Scrape up any fond (browned pieces) with a wooden spoon.

4. Stir frequently. When the onion starts to stick to the pan, add 2 more tablespoons of water. Repeat until the onions are dark brown and softened (about 15 minutes).

5. Remove from heat and season with salt.

*For those at higher elevation, this may take up to 30 minutes.

Source: Slightly adapted from Serious Eats