Tennessee Onions

Ingredients:

– 4 large sweet onions (Vidalia or yellow onions work best)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
– 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)
– Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

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Optional Additions:

– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
– 1-2 cloves garlic, minced, for added depth of flavor.
– A splash of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper umami flavor.
– Fresh thyme or rosemary for herbal notes.
– Crumbled bacon for an extra savory touch.
– Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese can add a creamy richness.
– A splash of white wine to enhance the caramelization process.

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Tips for Success:

1. Slice onions evenly: For uniform cooking and a smooth texture, slice the onions into even rings or half-rings.
2. Use sweet onions: Sweet onions, like Vidalia, bring out the best flavors in this dish, as they caramelize beautifully without being too sharp.
3. Low and slow cooking: Caramelizing onions requires patience, so cook them over low to medium heat to achieve a deep, sweet flavor without burning.
4. Don’t rush the glaze: Allow the glaze to simmer and thicken before serving to ensure a rich, concentrated flavor.
5. Taste and adjust: Depending on the sweetness of your onions, you may need to adjust the sugar or vinegar to balance the flavor to your liking.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel and slice the onions into thin rings or half-rings (about 1/4 inch thick).
3. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until they start to soften and become translucent.
5. Stir in the brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. If desired, add the paprika or any optional additions like garlic or herbs.
6. Simmer the mixture on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized and the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, uncovered, until the onions are tender and the glaze is thick and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

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Description:

Tennessee Onions offer a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. The onions become tender and richly caramelized as they soak up the sweet brown sugar and tangy vinegar, creating a dish that’s comforting and satisfying. The glaze is luscious, coating the onions with a silky, flavorful sauce. When baked, the dish achieves a perfect balance of textures—soft onions, rich glaze, and a slightly crispy edge that adds depth to each bite.

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Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):