Coca-Cola Caramelized Onions

 

When I was a little girl, supermarkets had cozy restaurants inside, like “The Station” at Schnuck’s market. They weren’t fancy, but I loved the table service or sitting at the counter. Going out to eat was a treat, especially when my dad was out of town. My mom and I would head to The Station for dinner. One night, we sat at the counter, and Mom stepped away to grab something from the store, leaving me to order. She wanted a Reuben, and I chose a cheeseburger with pickle and onion, just the way dad liked it. When the waitress, with her pencil tucked over her ear, asked, “Grilled or raw?” I recoiled in horror! Grilled or raw, I thought to myself, who would eat a raw burger? “Grilled!” I blurted, proud of my choice at eight years old. But when my burger arrived topped with limp, grilled onions, my heart sank—those weren’t dad’s crisp, raw onions. Hungry, I took a bite anyway. To my surprise, those grilled onions were heavenly! I’ve been hooked on them ever since. 

Recently, I stumbled across a unique burger recipe topped with caramelized onions, the unique twist was that they were Coca-Cola caramelized onions—yes, you read that right! The soda adds a sweet, tangy depth that elevates any burger. It takes a bit of time, but it’s simple and so worth it. If you want the recipe for the entire burger, you can find it here. If, like me, you’re just interested in the onions, the recipe is below.Coca-Cola Caramelized Onions

4 Melissa’s sweet onions

1 T. olive oil

2 t. kosher salt

½ t. freshly ground black pepper

1 c. Coca-Cola (NOT diet. I cannot emphasize this enough.) 

Peel onions and slice into ¼-inch rounds. Separate into rings.

 Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil, onions, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat onions evenly.

 Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes until onions are translucent and soft.

 Pour in Coca-Cola and stir. Cook for another 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are browned, caramelized, and most liquid is gone.

 Remove from heat. Serve warm atop your favorite burger.

 These onions are sweet, savory, and perfect for jazzing up any meal. Try them—you won’t be disappointed!