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Introduction:
Growing up, there was always a special aroma wafting from my grandma’s kitchen—an inviting blend of warmth and tradition. Among the many dishes she made, one in particular always stood out: her onions infused with cloves. It was a secret she cherished and passed down, and today, I’m sharing why this simple addition makes all the difference. The balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors from cloves elevates onions in a way you might not expect, and this simple yet impactful technique is something everyone should try at least once. Let’s explore the magic behind this flavorful twist and how you can recreate it in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
4 medium-sized onions, peeled and sliced thinly
8-10 whole cloves
2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter
1 teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon of sugar (optional, for sweetness)
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
A sprig of thyme or rosemary (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the onions: Start by peeling and thinly slicing the onions. The thinner the slices, the better they will absorb the flavors from the cloves.
Heat the pan: In a medium-sized skillet, add the olive oil or butter and place it over medium heat. Allow the oil to heat up without smoking.
Infuse the onions: Add the sliced onions to the pan and stir gently to coat them in the oil or butter. Sprinkle in the salt and sugar (if using). The sugar helps to caramelize the onions and balances the heat from the cloves.
Add the cloves: Carefully stick the whole cloves into a few pieces of the onion slices. These will slowly infuse their warm, aromatic flavor throughout the onions as they cook.
Cook the onions: Let the onions cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. You want them to become soft and golden, not burnt. The cloves will release their flavor into the onions, creating a deliciously spiced mixture.
Finish off with seasoning: Once the onions are caramelized and tender, remove the skillet from heat. Taste the onions and adjust the seasoning with pepper and more salt if needed. Optionally, add a sprig of thyme or rosemary for an herbal touch.
Serve: Remove the cloves from the onions before serving, as they are primarily there to infuse flavor and are not meant to be eaten.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving: These spiced onions can be served as a side dish with meats, or as a topping for sandwiches, burgers, or roasted vegetables. They also make a great addition to salads or a flavorful garnish for soups.
Storage: Leftover spiced onions can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat them gently on the stove over low heat. The flavors only improve with time, so feel free to make them ahead of time for meal prepping.
Variations:
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