Balsamic Caramelized Onions (Freezer Recipe)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large, heavy skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until the butter has melted.
2. Add the sliced onions and salt, stirring to coat the onions evenly in the butter and oil. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking for 40 to 50 minutes, stirring every few minutes, until the onions are deeply golden brown, tender, and caramelized.
4. Stir in the brown sugar, if using, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Add the balsamic vinegar, fresh thyme, and black pepper. Continue cooking for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vinegar has reduced and evenly coated the onions.
6. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the onions to cool completely.
7. Divide the cooled onions into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags in ½-cup or 1-cup portions.
8. Label with the date and freeze for up to 6 months.

Variations

• Use sweet onions such as Vidalia for an even milder, sweeter flavor.
• Add a few cloves of minced garlic during the final 10 minutes of cooking for extra depth.
• Substitute fresh rosemary or sage for the thyme to create different herb profiles.
• Stir in a splash of dry red wine before adding the balsamic vinegar for a richer flavor.
• Finish with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle hint of heat.

Tips

• Slice the onions as evenly as possible so they cook at the same rate.
• Cook the onions slowly over medium-low heat to develop their natural sweetness without burning.
• Stir regularly, especially during the final stages of cooking, to prevent sticking and scorching.
• Freeze the onions in flat freezer bags for quicker freezing, easier storage, and faster thawing.
• Portion the onions into recipe-sized amounts so you can thaw only what you need.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen over low heat.
• Use these caramelized onions in mashed potatoes, grilled cheese sandwiches, pasta dishes, burgers, omelets, pizzas, soups, or spooned over steak and roasted vegetables for an instant flavor boost.