Caramelized onion gravy is like that friend who pairs perfectly with everyone at a dinner party. It enhances dishes and brings out hidden flavors. Imagine pouring it over mashed potatoes, where each spoonful becomes a little slice of heaven. Picture slathering it on a juicy roast chicken. The sweetness from the onions balances the savory notes in ways you never knew possible. 

For vegetarians, it’s fantastic over roasted vegetables or drizzled atop creamy polenta. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it with a hearty meatloaf or even a grain bowl filled with quinoa, beans, and charred veggies. The possibilities are endless and deliciously satisfying.

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Let’s talk about comfort food. We all have that go-to dish that wraps us in a warm hug on a cold day. For me, that dish often involves gravy. But there’s something magical about caramelized onion gravy that takes it to a whole new level. 

The sweetness of the caramelized onions mingling with rich broth creates a flavor profile that elevates any meal. I’ve spent years perfecting this recipe, and I promise you, it’s worth every minute you’ll spend in the kitchen.

What is Caramelized Onion Gravy?

Caramelized onion gravy is a luscious sauce made primarily from slowly cooked onions that develop a deep, rich flavor. When you slice an onion and cook it low and slow, something remarkable happens: it transforms. The natural sugars caramelize, bringing out a sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory elements like broth and butter.

Often served as an accompaniment to meat dishes, this gravy can easily take center stage, elevating both humble and extravagant meals alike. It’s versatile, and the ingredients can be adjusted to suit dietary needs or to play with flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Caramelized Onion Gravy

It’s time to dive into why you’ll become obsessed with this gravy. First and foremost, the flavor cannot be overstated. Each bite invites warmth and richness. Plus, it’s an incredibly simple recipe—requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal steps.

Additionally, this gravy is customizable. If you prefer a robust flavor, you can incorporate chervil or add sautéed mushrooms. For a bit of tang, consider adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice. You’ll be the star chef of your dinner table, and everyone will be begging for the secret recipe.

On a nutritional level, caramelized onion gravy can be made with vegetarian or vegan broth to suit your dietary preferences, making it accessible for nearly everyone. It pairs well with various dishes ranging from hearty mains to salads, making it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire.

The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Caramelized Onion Gravy

To achieve this rich and flavorful gravy, you’ll need:

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  
• 1 large yellow onion, halved and thinly sliced
  
• 1 small clove of garlic, minced (optional, for added depth)
  
• 1 teaspoon organic white sugar
  
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  
• ¼ cup plain all-purpose flour
  
• 4 cups vegetable stock, divided
  
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste
  
• ⅛ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, plus more to taste
  
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped, or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  
• 1 fresh bay leaf
  
• 1 tablespoon Tamari or gluten-free soy sauce
  
• 1 teaspoon aged balsamic vinegar
  
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added warmth)
  

Directions

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to whip up this amazing gravy.

Step 1: Prep the Onions

Start by preparing your onions. Halve them and slice them thinly. The thinner the slices, the better they will caramelize. Let’s not rush this step. A little patience goes a long way.

Step 2: Start Cooking

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add in the sliced onions. Stir occasionally, ensuring they begin to soften and turn golden brown. This process usually takes about 20-30 minutes, so keep an eye on them. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle in the sugar after about 10 minutes to help the caramelization.

Step 3: Add Garlic

If you’re using garlic, add in that minced clove about 2 minutes before the onions finish cooking. You want it fragrant but not burnt.

Step 4: The Butter

As the onions reach that deep golden color, add the butter to the skillet. Stir until it has melted and combines beautifully with the onions.

Step 5: Add Flour

Now, sprinkle in the flour. This will help thicken the gravy. All you need to do is stir it in. Give it a couple of minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.

Step 6: Pour in Stock

Gradually pour in 2 cups of vegetable stock, whisking continuously. This prevents lumps from forming. Once smooth, add in the remaining stock, salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaf, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and smoked paprika.

Step 7: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for a thickened gravy here. You can adjust the consistency by adding a bit more stock or allowing it to simmer longer.

Step 8: Final Touches

Taste your gravy and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Now you’re ready to dig in!

Notes

Here are some key tips for achieving perfect caramelized onion gravy:

• Choose the Right Onions: Yellow onions are excellent for this recipe. They have the right balance of sweetness and acidity.
  
• Heat is Key: Cooking on medium heat allows the onions to caramelize without burning.
  
• Low and Slow: The longer you cook the onions, the deeper the flavor. Don’t rush the process.
  
• Whisk Continuously: When adding stock, whisk continuously to avoid lumps.
  
• Customize Flavors: Feel free to add herbs or spices to make it your own.
  

Storage Tips

Once you’ve made your gravy, you might have some leftovers, which will keep wonderfully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, simply pour it into a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock to reach your desired consistency.

Nutrition Information

This gravy is packed with flavor while not being overly heavy. Here’s a basic breakdown for one serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 100
  
• Total Fat: 6g
  
• Saturated Fat: 2g
  
• Sodium: 350mg
  
• Carbohydrates: 10g
  
• Fiber: 1g
  
• Sugars: 2g
  
• Protein: 1g
  

Serving Suggestions

This caramelized onion gravy can be served with a variety of dishes. Here are some delightful ideas:

• Over Mashed Potatoes: It creates a rich and soothing experience.
  
• With Meatloaf: Enhances the meat with a sweet and savory profile.
  
• Pour on Roasted Veggies: Such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or squash.
  
• Drizzle on Polenta: For a comforting, creamy side dish.
  
• In a Grain Bowl: Combine with quinoa, black beans, and feta for a wholesome meal.
  

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Caramelized Onion Gravy?

Feel like switching things up? You can use these alternatives:

• White Onions: These will give a sharper taste.
  
• Red Onions: Offering a sweeter profile, they add color too.
  
• Shallots: These provide a milder, more delicate flavor.
  
• Broth Types: Feel free to use chicken broth or beef broth for enhanced depth.
  
• Vegan Butter or Olive Oil: If you’re vegan, these swaps work perfectly without compromising flavor.
  

Pamela Dunlap

Caramelized Onion Gravy

Caramelized onion gravy is like that friend who pairs perfectly with everyone at a dinner party. It enhances dishes and brings out hidden flavors.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings: 4 cups

Course: sauce

Cuisine: American

Calories: 100

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion halved and thinly sliced
• 1 small clove of garlic minced (optional, for added depth)
• 1 teaspoon organic white sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup plain all-purpose flour
• 4 cups vegetable stock divided
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt plus more to taste
• ⅛ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper plus more to taste
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves chopped, or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 fresh bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon Tamari or gluten-free soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon aged balsamic vinegar
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for added warmth

Equipment

• Skillet, Cups

Method

 

Step 1: Prep the Onions

1. Start by preparing your onions. Halve them and slice them thinly. The thinner the slices, the better they will caramelize. Let’s not rush this step. A little patience goes a long way.

Step 2: Start Cooking

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add in the sliced onions. Stir occasionally, ensuring they begin to soften and turn golden brown. This process usually takes about 20-30 minutes, so keep an eye on them. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle in the sugar after about 10 minutes to help the caramelization.

Step 3: Add Garlic

1. If you’re using garlic, add in that minced clove about 2 minutes before the onions finish cooking. You want it fragrant but not burnt.

Step 4: The Butter

1. As the onions reach that deep golden color, add the butter to the skillet. Stir until it has melted and combines beautifully with the onions.

Step 5: Add Flour

1. Now, sprinkle in the flour. This will help thicken the gravy. All you need to do is stir it in. Give it a couple of minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.

Step 6: Pour in Stock

1. Gradually pour in 2 cups of vegetable stock, whisking continuously. This prevents lumps from forming. Once smooth, add in the remaining stock, salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaf, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and smoked paprika.

Step 7: Simmer

1. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes. You’re looking for a thickened gravy here. You can adjust the consistency by adding a bit more stock or allowing it to simmer longer.

Step 8: Final Touches

1. Taste your gravy and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Now you’re ready to dig in!

Nutrition

Calories: 100kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 1gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 350mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2g

Notes

Here are some key tips for achieving perfect caramelized onion gravy:

• Choose the Right Onions: Yellow onions are excellent for this recipe. They have the right balance of sweetness and acidity.
• Heat is Key: Cooking on medium heat allows the onions to caramelize without burning.
• Low and Slow: The longer you cook the onions, the deeper the flavor. Don’t rush the process.
• Whisk Continuously: When adding stock, whisk continuously to avoid lumps.
  
• Customize Flavors: Feel free to add herbs or spices to make it your own.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Caramelized onion gravy is more than just a sauce; it’s a celebration of flavors and texture. Every bite promises a delightful experience, whether dining alone or entertaining guests. From its ingredients to its versatility, this dish showcases how simple elements can create something extraordinary. Try it out, and let your culinary journey unfold. You’ll eagerly find yourself creating endless combinations and flavors—all thanks to this enchanting gravy. Happy cooking!

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