It sounds like you’re referring to a simple yet delicious way to cook onions, perhaps using a method inspired by traditional Chinese cooking. Cooking onions with a lid can help them caramelize and soften beautifully, unlocking a rich, sweet flavor that’s incredibly versatile in dishes. Here’s a straightforward recipe to prepare caramelized onions using a lid to trap the steam and enhance the cooking process.
Simple Delicious Caramelized Onions
Ingredients:
2 large onions (yellow or red)
2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter
Salt, to taste
Optional: a splash of balsamic vinegar or soy sauce for added flavor
Equipment:
Skillet with a lid
Instructions:
Prepare the Onions:
Peel the onions and slice them thinly. The thinner the slices, the faster they will cook and caramelize.
Heat the Oil:
Place a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil or butter. Allow it to heat up until it’s shimmering but not smoking.
Cook the Onions:
Add the sliced onions to the skillet, spreading them out evenly.
Sprinkle a little salt over the onions to help draw out moisture and enhance their sweetness.
Stir the onions gently to coat them in the oil or butter.
Cover and Caramelize:
Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. This will trap steam and help the onions cook more evenly, preventing them from burning.
Let the onions cook for about 20-30 minutes, checking occasionally. If they start to stick, you can add a small splash of water or more oil to the pan.
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