Description
A simple and flavorful Onion Boil recipe that yields a light, aromatic broth perfect as a soup or a base for various dishes. Made with sautéed onions, garlic, herbs, and broth, this vegan and gluten-free recipe brings out the natural sweetness of onions in a comforting, warm preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
Primary Ingredients
- 4 large yellow onions, peeled and quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 cups water
Herbs and Seasoning
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- Optional: 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice for brightness
Instructions
- Heat the fat and garlic: In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the smashed garlic cloves and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Sauté the onions: Add the quartered onions to the pot. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the edges start turning slightly golden to bring out their sweetness.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the water. Add bay leaves, black peppercorns, thyme, and salt. Stir to combine ingredients.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until onions are very tender and the broth is flavorful.
- Finish and serve: Remove bay leaves and peppercorns using a slotted spoon. For a clear broth, serve as is. For a heartier texture, gently mash some onions in the pot. Optionally, stir in vinegar or lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.
Notes
- This onion boil can be served as a light, comforting soup or used as a flavorful base for grains, meats, or vegetables.
- For a creamy variation, blend the cooked mixture into a smooth onion soup.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can be frozen for up to 1 month and reheated gently on the stove.
- Adjust salt and acidity with lemon juice or vinegar to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup or Side
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
