Onion boil, a dish that might sound simple, carries within it layers of flavor and memories. This humble recipe, transforming the often sharp onion into something sweet and incredibly tender, is more than just a side dish it’s a testament to the magic of simple ingredients. My grandmother used to make this onion boil for us on chilly evenings, and the cozy aroma would fill the entire house. Today, I’m excited to share my take on this classic onion boil recipe!
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This onion boil Recipe
This boiled onion recipe is a revelation for anyone who thinks onions are only good for adding to other dishes. Cooked until meltingly soft and infused with butter, it’s a comforting side that will steal the show. It’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and requires just a few basic ingredients. Plus, the naturally sweet flavor of the onions shines through, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and incredibly delicious. I love how versatile it is you can serve it with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or even enjoy it on crusty bread.
Follow us on Pinterest for to get the latest recipes and cooking tips.
This viral onion boil has become a modern comfort food and a surprising twist on a familiar vegetable. Boiled onions are naturally gluten free and vegan so anyone can enjoy them!
Ingredients Needed for This onion boil Recipe
- 3 large yellow onions, peeled and halved
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
How to Make This onion boil Recipe
- 1. Place the halved onions in a large pot or Dutch oven.
- 2. Add the vegetable broth, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Place in the butter and place in the center of the pot and cover with lid.
- 4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the onions are very tender and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
A little tip: If all the broth evaporates before the onions are done, add water, and lower the heat. If there’s too much broth, cook on high at the end, and leave off the lid.
- 5. Once the onions are tender, remove them from the pot and place them in a serving dish.
- 6. Increase the heat to medium and let the remaining broth reduce into a flavorful sauce.
- 7. Pour the sauce over the cooked onions.
- 8. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Craving more simple dishes and savory combinations? Get ready to elevate your meals with this French Onion Chicken Rice Bake.
How to Serve This onion boil Recipe
This buttery onion recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a side dish alongside roasted chicken, baked ham, or grilled steak. It’s also a delicious addition to a vegetarian meal, complementing roasted vegetables or a hearty lentil stew. For a simple yet elegant appetizer, serve the boiled onions on toasted baguette slices with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
How to Store This onion boil Recipe
To store leftover onion boil, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the onions for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make This onion boil Recipe
- For a richer flavor, use bone broth or beef broth instead of vegetable broth.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or dried oregano, to customize the flavor.
- If you prefer roasted onion boil, transfer the boiled onions to a baking sheet after cooking and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, or until slightly caramelized.
Why not pack up these onions into some Tasty Hobo Foil Packets 2 for an amazing camping recipe!
Helpful Notes for This onion boil Recipe
The type of onion you use will affect the level of sweetness. Yellow onions caramelize beautifully and become very sweet when cooked. White onions have a sharper flavor and may require a longer cooking time. Red onions can also be used, but they will retain a slightly pink hue after cooking. Make sure to cut the onions the same shape. It will ensure that they are cooked all the way through and are the same size.
Variation of This onion boil Recipe
For a seasonal twist, add a handful of chopped fresh herbs, such as rosemary or sage, during the last few minutes of cooking. In the fall, you can add a few slices of apple or pear to the pot for a sweet and savory flavor combination. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the broth. Or try adding a bay leaf for extra flavor.
What is onion boil?
Onion boil is a simple dish in which onions are boiled until tender and often then finished with butter, salt, pepper, serving as a comforting and flavorful side dish.
How do you make onion boil?
To boil onions, peel and cut them into halves or quarters (depending on size). Place them in boiling salted water and cook until tender. Finally, drain the water and season with butter, salt, and pepper.
What are some variations of onion boil?
Variations include adding herbs like thyme or bay leaf during boiling, caramelizing the onions after boiling for added sweetness, or incorporating other vegetables like potatoes for a heartier dish.
What kind of onions are best for onion boil?
Yellow or white onions are excellent choices for onion boil, as they become sweet and tender when cooked. Red onions can also be used, but they may retain a slightly stronger flavor.
Onion Boil: The BEST Buttery Recipe You’ll Ever Need
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Transform simple onions into a sweet and tender side dish with this easy boiled onion recipe. Infused with butter and simmered in broth, its perfect with any comfort food.
Ingredients
- 3 large yellow onions, peeled and halvedn4 tablespoons salted buttern1 cup vegetable brothn1 teaspoon saltn1/2 teaspoon black peppernOptional herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Place the halved onions in a large pot or Dutch oven.nAdd the vegetable broth, salt, and pepper.nPlace in the butter and place in the center of the pot and cover with lid.nBring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the onions are very tender and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.nOnce the onions are tender, remove them from the pot and place them in a serving dish.nIncrease the heat to medium and let the remaining broth reduce into a flavorful sauce.nPour the sauce over the cooked onions.nGarnish with fresh thyme or parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
