What kind of onions are best for this recipe?

Sweet onions, such as Vidalia or Walla Walla, are excellent choices for their mild flavor that sweetens beautifully when cooked. Yellow onions also work well, offering a slightly more robust onion flavor that mellows to tenderness.

Can I add herbs or other seasonings to 'Onion Boil Tender'?

Absolutely! While simple is delicious, you can enhance the flavor with a sprig of fresh thyme, a bay leaf, a dash of dried oregano, or even a splash of white wine added to the broth during simmering. A tiny pinch of sugar can also amplify their natural sweetness.

How do I ensure the onions become perfectly tender?

The key is low and slow simmering. Ensure your liquid just covers the onions and maintain a gentle simmer (not a rolling boil). Cover the pot to trap steam and allow ample time for the onions to break down and become meltingly tender, usually 25-30 minutes.

How should I store and reheat leftover tender onions?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a tablespoon of water or broth if they seem dry, or microwave them until heated through.

Onion Boil Tender: The Surprisingly Simple Side Dish You Need to Try

Name: Onion Boil Tender
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2-3 large sweet or yellow onions (about 1.5 lbs); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil; 2 cups vegetable broth or water; 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste; Optional: pinch of sugar; Optional: 1 sprig fresh thyme or 1 bay leaf

Description

A surprisingly simple and comforting side dish of onions simmered to perfect tenderness with savory depth, perfect for elevating any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

2-3 large sweet or yellow onions (about 1.5 lbs)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil
2 cups vegetable broth or water
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Optional: pinch of sugar
Optional: 1 sprig fresh thyme or 1 bay leaf

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Instructions

Step 1: Peel the onions and slice them into 1/4 to 1/2-inch thick rings or half-moons. Try to keep the slices uniform for even cooking.
Step 2: In a medium pot or deep skillet, melt the butter (or heat olive oil) over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté gently for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften and become translucent, but not browned.
Step 3: Pour in the vegetable broth or water. The liquid should just about cover the onions. Add the salt, black pepper, and any optional seasonings like a pinch of sugar or fresh thyme/bay leaf.
Step 4: Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the onions simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until they are incredibly tender and almost translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Once tender, remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve warm as a comforting side dish.

Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, you can deglaze the pot with a splash of white wine after sautéing the onions, before adding the broth. These tender onions also make a great base for French onion soup or a topping for burgers.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 80 kcal
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg