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Coca-Cola Caramelized Onions

Sweet, rich caramelized onions with a unique depth of flavor from Coca-Cola. This simple yet impressive recipe transforms ordinary onions into a delectable topping for burgers, steaks, or your favorite sandwiches.

 

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 1 cup 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup Coca-Cola
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil until it shimmers but doesn’t smoke. This creates the perfect foundation for slowly cooking the onions without burning them.
  2. Add the onions: Add the thinly sliced onions to the skillet and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure all onions are coated with oil, which helps them cook evenly and prevents sticking.
  3. Initial cooking: Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and turn translucent, about 10 minutes. During this phase, the onions will release moisture and begin to break down.
  4. Add sweeteners: Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the onions, then pour in the Coca-Cola. The carbonation and unique flavor profile of the soda will help break down the onions further while adding a distinctive caramel flavor.
  5. Final caramelization: Continue cooking the onions, stirring frequently to prevent burning, until all liquid has evaporated and the onions develop a deep caramel color, approximately 15-20 minutes. The natural sugars in the onions, combined with the Coca-Cola and brown sugar, will create a rich, complex sweetness.
  6. Finish and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm as a delicious topping or accompaniment to your favorite dishes.

Notes

  • For an even deeper flavor, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar during the final few minutes of cooking.
  • These caramelized onions can be refrigerated for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
  • For a spicy variation, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when adding the salt and pepper.
  • Coca-Cola Classic works best for this recipe as diet versions don’t caramelize properly due to artificial sweeteners.
  • Author: bestfeed
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Sauces-condiments
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
  • Calories: 52
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 75mg
  • Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg