While scrolling through Instagram, you must have come across several dishes that combine the goodness of caramelised onions. Yes, caramelised onions are back in trend, and for a good reason. This simple yet flavourful ingredient has gained a massive fan base, thanks to its rich, sweet taste that amps up any dish. Whether you are an experienced chef or a home cook, caramelised onions are a delicious addition to your everyday dishes. Are you looking for ways to add the goodness of caramelised onions to your desi dishes? Then think no more! Here are 5 easy things that you can whip up with caramelised onions:
Also Read: Quick Recipe: How To Make Instant Onion Jam With Caramelised Onions
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How to Make Caramelised Onions at Home?
Before we dive into these easy recipes, let's revise how to make caramelised onions at home. For the unversed, start by slicing 3-4 medium-sized onions thinly. Heat some ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat and add the onions. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and keep stirring occasionally. Let the onions cook slowly in their natural sugar and caramelise until they turn golden brown. This will take at least 25-30 minutes. Once it's done, let it cool, and it's ready to amp up your dishes!
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5 Easy Dishes To Whip Up With Caramelised Onions:
1. Caramelised Onion and Paneer Curry
One of the most delightful ways to use caramelised onions is with paneer. In a pan, saute cumin seeds, tomato puree, and spices like garam masala, turmeric, coriander, and red chili powder. Add paneer cubes and caramelised onions to it and cook for another five minutes. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with roti! The sweet, rich flavour of the onions perfectly complements the spiced paneer, making it an easy dish to please your guests. Bonus tip: add two tablespoons of heavy cream over the sabzi to enhance its taste!
2. Caramelised Onion Dip
Ditch your regular dips and amp up the way you eat chips and nachos with this lip-smacking caramelised onion dip. This dip is easy to make and requires staple pantry ingredients. To make this, caramelise your onions until they are golden, brown, and sweet. Let them cool completely. In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, cream, and some garlic powder. Gently combine it with caramelised onions and mix well. Season with salt and pepper, and it's done! The savoury flavour of the chips pairs perfectly with the mild sweetness of the caramelised onion dip. It is perfect for your movie nights... or when your friends drop by for an impromptu chat session.
3. Caramelised Onion Paratha
Another fantastic way to enjoy the delicious sweetness of prepared onions, caramelised onion paratha is perfect for your morning breakfast. To make this, start by kneading a dough with whole wheat flour, cumin seeds, ajwain, and salt. Add in the caramelised onions and roll out the parathas flat. Cook them on a hot tawa with a little ghee and enjoy hot! Pair this with a tangy raita or a spicy coriander chutney and you are good to go! The caramelised onions add a delectable sweetness and depth to the parathas, making them an irresistible treat.
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4. Caramelised Onion Rice
Bored of eating bland white rice every day? Then add some caramelised onions to it! In a pan, add ghee and saute cumin seeds, bay leaf, and cloves until they are aromatic. Add basmati rice and saute briefly before adding water and salt. Cook until the rice is done and then add caramelised onions on top of it. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve! This rice pairs beautifully with spicy curries or any vegetable gravy. Plus, it doesn't require much time, so you can easily make this caramelised onion rice every day.
5. Caramelised Onion Raita
Raita is what makes a meal complete, right? Then why not combine the flavours of caramelised onions with your creamy goodness? In a bowl, whisk plain yoghurt until it is smooth and mix caramelised onions, roasted cumin powder, finely chopped green chili, and salt. Mix well and garnish with coriander leaves. Refrigerate this raita for an hour and serve chilled! The sweetness of caramelised onions, when combined with the tanginess of yoghurt, creates a deliciously creamy raita that will leave you and your family asking for more.
Also Read: Indian Cooking Tips: How To Make Rajasthani Onion Sabji For Dinner
Can you think of any other way to incorporate caramelised onions into your dishes? Let us know in the comments below!