A Flavorful, Aromatic Dish That Combines Tender Onions With Bold Seasonings And A Simple Cooking Method For A Delicious Side Dish Or Appetizer!
Old-Fashioned Onion Simmer Pot is one of those dishes that is both simple and full of flavor. I decided to make it because it brings out the natural sweetness of the onions while infusing them with delicious spices and a touch of sweetness from the caramelization process.
It’s a unique side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, seafood, or as a standalone vegetarian option. My family loves it because it’s not only easy to make but also super satisfying. The tender, savory onions combined with the subtle smokiness from the boiling process are a real treat!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Can I use different types of onions for this recipe?
A: Yes! While yellow onions are the most commonly used, you can experiment with sweet onions like Vidalia or red onions for a slightly different flavor profile.
Q: How do I avoid the onions being too strong?
A: If you prefer a milder onion flavor, you can parboil the onions first to soften them before seasoning and boiling again. This will help mellow the taste.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the boil?
A: Absolutely! You can add carrots, garlic, or even potatoes to the boil for additional flavor. Just make sure the vegetables are cut to a similar size for even cooking.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover Onion Boil in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in a skillet to bring back some of the crispness.
Q: Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
A: Yes! You can cook the onions on low for about 6 hours in a slow cooker, which will help them become even more tender and flavorful.
What You Need to Make Onion Boil
For the Boil:
- 4 large onions (yellow or sweet)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Onion Boil
- Prepare the onions: Peel the onions and cut off the root end. You can either leave them whole or slice them in half depending on your preference.
- Sauté the onions: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they are lightly browned.
- Season the onions: Sprinkle the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the onions, stirring to coat evenly. Add the broth to the pan, cover, and reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer the onions: Let the onions simmer in the broth for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and infused with the seasonings. You can check for tenderness by piercing them with a fork.
- Garnish and serve: Once the onions are tender and fully cooked, remove them from the heat. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch. Serve immediately as a side dish or appetizer.
Tips
- For extra flavor: You can add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the broth to give the onions a slightly tangy kick.
- For a richer taste: Try adding a dash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the broth for added depth of flavor.
- Serve with dips: These onions are great when paired with a creamy dip like sour cream or a tangy yogurt-based sauce.
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Sophie R. – “I loved this Onion Boil! The onions were so tender and flavorful. It’s a great, simple side dish that pairs well with so many things.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Emma W. – “I tried this recipe as a side for grilled chicken, and it was a hit! The onions had such a nice sweetness and smoky flavor.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Lena H. – “So simple but so delicious! The onions absorbed the broth and spices perfectly. This will definitely be a regular at our dinner table.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Maggie T. – “I made this for a family gathering, and it was a great hit! I added some fresh garlic for extra flavor, and it turned out amazing.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Nancy B. – “This Onion Boil was a revelation! I never realized how flavorful onions could be. The broth and seasoning were perfect.”
Printable Recipe
Onion Boil
This Onion Boil is a simple yet flavorful dish with tender onions cooked in a savory broth, seasoned with garlic, smoked paprika, and herbs. Perfect as a side or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 4 large onions (yellow or sweet)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
- Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the onions:
- Peel the onions and cut off the root end. You can either leave them whole or slice them in half depending on your preference.
Sauté the onions:
- Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they are lightly browned.
Season the onions:
- Sprinkle the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the onions, stirring to coat evenly. Add the broth to the pan, cover, and reduce the heat to low.
Simmer the onions:
- Let the onions simmer in the broth for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and infused with the seasonings. You can check for tenderness by piercing them with a fork.
Garnish and serve:
- Once the onions are tender and fully cooked, remove them from the heat. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch. Serve immediately as a side dish or appetizer.
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If you loved this Onion Boil, please share it with your friends and family! It’s a great side dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Share it on social media and tag me – I’d love to see how your Onion Boil turns out!
