To make a delicious and flavorful onion paste, the first step is to peel the onion. When choosing how we want to cut it, we have several options: we can slice it into thin rings, small pieces, or flakes, depending on personal preferences or the equipment we have, such as a food processor that can do all the work in a few seconds. Regardless of the chosen method, it is essential that the onion is cut evenly to allow for even cooking.
After preparing the onion, we add it to a large pan in an even layer with hot oil. It is important that the pan is as large as possible to avoid overcrowding, which could lead to uneven cooking. We add salt, which will help draw out the water from the onion and intensify its flavor. Then, we reduce the heat to low and let the onion warm slowly, constantly stirring with a wooden spatula to prevent burning.
Cooking the onion on low heat for about 40-50 minutes, we will notice how it changes color, gradually becoming golden and eventually brown, thus developing a sweet and complex flavor. It is essential to be patient at this stage, as caramelizing the onion will add a rich taste to the dishes in which we use it. When the onion is perfectly caramelized, we turn off the heat and let it cool slightly.
Once the onion has cooled, we transform the caramelized onion into a paste. This can be done through various methods: using a mortar and pestle, a traditional process that ensures a fine texture, or we can opt for a meat grinder or blender, which will save us time and effort. Regardless of the chosen method, the final result will be a smooth paste with an intense flavor.
The obtained onion paste is transferred to a container with a lid, where it can be stored in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks, allowing us to use it in various recipes. Onion paste is a versatile ingredient, ideal for enriching soups, sauces, stews, or any dish where we want to add a note of sweetness and complexity. Experiment with it and let your imagination guide you in the kitchen!
After preparing the onion, we add it to a large pan in an even layer with hot oil. It is important that the pan is as large as possible to avoid overcrowding, which could lead to uneven cooking. We add salt, which will help draw out the water from the onion and intensify its flavor. Then, we reduce the heat to low and let the onion warm slowly, constantly stirring with a wooden spatula to prevent burning.
Cooking the onion on low heat for about 40-50 minutes, we will notice how it changes color, gradually becoming golden and eventually brown, thus developing a sweet and complex flavor. It is essential to be patient at this stage, as caramelizing the onion will add a rich taste to the dishes in which we use it. When the onion is perfectly caramelized, we turn off the heat and let it cool slightly.
Once the onion has cooled, we transform the caramelized onion into a paste. This can be done through various methods: using a mortar and pestle, a traditional process that ensures a fine texture, or we can opt for a meat grinder or blender, which will save us time and effort. Regardless of the chosen method, the final result will be a smooth paste with an intense flavor.
The obtained onion paste is transferred to a container with a lid, where it can be stored in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks, allowing us to use it in various recipes. Onion paste is a versatile ingredient, ideal for enriching soups, sauces, stews, or any dish where we want to add a note of sweetness and complexity. Experiment with it and let your imagination guide you in the kitchen!
Ingredients
For 7 tablespoons with a peak - 1.5 kg of white/red onion or a mix - 1 teaspoon of salt - 6 tablespoons of oil