Caramelising onions transforms a humble ingredient into something rich, sweet and deeply flavourful. The process may seem straightforward, but achieving perfectly caramelised onions requires patience and a few key techniques. Here’s everything you need to know.
The science behind caramelisation Caramelisation occurs when the natural sugars break down and brown over low heat, resulting in that signature golden hue and sweet taste. This process takes time - typically around 40 minutes to an hour - but the depth of flavour is worth the wait. The key is to cook the onions slowly, allowing the sugars to develop without burning.
How to make caramelised onions.