Slow cooker caramelized onion

Making caramelized onions in a slow cooker is a convenient and hands-off method that yields sweet, richly flavored onions perfect for adding to a variety of dishes. Here’s how to do it:Ingredients:

• 4 large onions, thinly sliced (yellow or sweet onions work well)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional, for added flavor)
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (optional, for added depth of flavor)

Instructions:

1. Place the thinly sliced onions in the bowl of your slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, olive oil, salt, pepper, and brown sugar (if using).
3. Pour the butter and oil mixture over the sliced onions in the slow cooker. Add the minced garlic (if using) and toss everything together until the onions are evenly coated.
4. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook the onions on low heat for 8-10 hours, stirring occasionally if possible. Cooking them on low heat for a longer time helps develop the caramelization and sweetness.
5. If desired, about halfway through the cooking time, add the balsamic vinegar to the slow cooker. This adds extra depth of flavor to the caramelized onions.
6. After 8-10 hours, the onions should be soft, golden brown, and caramelized. If there is excess liquid in the slow cooker, you can remove the lid and continue cooking the onions on low heat for another hour or so, stirring occasionally, until the liquid evaporates and the onions reach your desired consistency.
7. Once the onions are caramelized to your liking, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. Use the caramelized onions immediately in your favorite dishes, or let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.

Caramelized onions made in the slow cooker are delicious as a topping for burgers, pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and more, or as a flavorful addition to soups, stews, and casseroles. Enjoy!