Caramelized Mushrooms and Onions is a simple and flavorful side dish that I use as a topping for pizza, burgers, grilled steak, sandwiches and much more.
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Caramelized Mushrooms And Onions Recipe
The first time I tried dish, I placed it on top of my burger, and it was a huge hit. Then, after about three or four weeks, when I was preparing steak and wanted to add a touch of elegance and uniqueness, this dish crossed my mind.
I made it again to accompany my steak, and since then, it has become a versatile addition to my meals—I use it as a side dish, a topping, and sometimes even an ingredient in sandwiches and more.
This easy dish is versatile and made with few ingredients, it is also an excellent vegan-friendly and low carb side dish packed with delicious flavor and irresistible texture.
The process of caramelizing the mushrooms and onions in this recipe enhanced all of their flavors; they become soft and naturally sweet with a hint of earthy flavor that will make your mouth water.
I like this recipe because it is freezer-friendly and reheats wonderfully; I also find it a Perfect side dish for the holiday season and all special occasions.
I don't add any salt since adding salt will only draw out additional moisture and leave me with too much liquid in the pan, which will make the caramelization process longer than necessary.
Having made this recipe numerous times, I've found that yellow or sweet onions, such as Vidalia or Walla Walla varieties, caramelize exceptionally well due to their higher sugar content.
What You’ll Need
Note: This is an overview of the ingredients. See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Mushroom. I used white button mushrooms, and I sliced it not too thinly. Also, shiitake mushroom works well.
Onion. The onion in this recipe is the one responsible for caramelization as it contains sugar that allows for the said process to take place.
Olive Oil and Butter. For better results, I use both for sauteing the onion and mushroom.
Garlic. Finely minced or crushed garlic is my best flavoring agent for this recipe.
Ground Black Pepper. To taste.
Fresh Thyme: For adding layers of flavor and distinct aroma.
Soy Sauce. Soy sauce has a rich umami flavoring that will go well with the rest of the ingredients. You can substitute for Worcestershire sauce.
How To Make Caramelized Mushrooms and Onions?
One: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Two: Add the sliced onions to the hot pan, and saute for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Three: Add the sliced mushrooms, sprinkle ground black pepper on top, cook for 3-4 minutes.
Pro Tip: To clean mushrooms, wipe them with a damp paper towel.
Four: When mushrooms are tender, lower the heat and add butter and minced garlic; cook until caramelized.
Pro Tip: Ensure you cook off all the liquid completely; this step allows the onions and mushrooms to caramelize properly.
Five: Add soy sauce (scrub any brown bits stuck in the bottom of the pan).
Six: Now, stir in thyme, cook for 30 seconds, then turn off the heat and serve.
Recipe Variations
- Garnish this dish with fresh parsley for a peppery and clean after taste.
- Add a tablespoon of lemon juice for more flavor.
- Complement the earthy and subtle taste of this recipe by adding chili flakes to give it more spice and sharp flavor.
- Add some fresh herbs such as cilantro or rosemary or sage.
- Replace soy sauce with balsamic vinegar if you like.
Serving Suggestions
You can serve this dish in various ways, and none of it you will be disappointed about. Thus dish is the perfect topping for your medium rare steak for a fancy dinner with your family, or a simple topping for your homemade pizza or flatbread.
This dish will also go well with Sirloin Steaks with Mushroom Gravy and Veggie Egg Fried Rice.
How to Store
This dish will keep in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag in your refrigerator for up to 5 days.
If you want to keep them longer than that, you may choose to freeze them to extend their shelf life for up to 3 months.
Recipe FAQs
In order to avoid crowding the pan, you'll want to choose one with a large surface area. More space provides for a more even distribution of the caramelization process as well as for the evaporation of moisture. Use stainless steel pan, non-stick pan or cast iron skillet.
white button mushrooms or baby bella mushrooms will work fine.
Long! It takes about 50 – 55 minutes to caramelize the onions and mushrooms. It is best to do it over low heat and stir occasionally, so they don't burn.
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Caramelized Mushrooms And Onions
Ingredients
- 1 onion , sliced into half-moons
- 400 g mushrooms , cleaned and sliced
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic , finely minced
- ¼ tablespoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme , chopped
Instructions
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.2 tablespoon olive oil
- Add onions, saute for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.1 onion
- Add mushrooms, sprinkle ground black pepper on top, cook for 3-4 minutes.400 g mushrooms, ¼ tablespoon ground black pepper
- When mushrooms are tender, lower the heat and add butter and garlic; cook until caramelized.3 cloves garlic, 1 tablespoon butter
- Add soy sauce (scrub any bits stuck in the bottom of the pan).1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Now, stir in thyme, cook for 30 seconds, then turn off the heat and serve.1 tablespoon fresh thyme
Notes
- I recommend using yellow or sweet onions for this recipe since they caramelize the most; meaning they have more sugar to offer like Vidalia and Walla Walla.
Pam says
Simple recipe, thanks!
Heather says
Sauteed vs caramelized, which is the best?
Radwa says
It depends on what you need them for.