Are you ready to transform your ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences? Graham Kerr's Basic Brown Onion Sauce is not just a condiment—it's a flavor revolution that will elevate every dish from bland to grand! This simple yet magical sauce has been a hidden gem in gourmet cooking, promising to turn even the most basic recipes into restaurant-worthy masterpieces with just a few ingredients and some culinary finesse.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Peel the onions and finely chop them into uniform, small pieces to ensure even cooking and smooth sauce texture.
- Place a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat and add the butter, allowing it to melt completely and become slightly foamy.
- Add the finely chopped onions to the melted butter, stirring continuously to coat the onions and prevent burning.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become soft, translucent, and begin to caramelize to a golden brown color (approximately 15-20 minutes).
- Sprinkle the flour over the caramelized onions, stirring constantly to incorporate and create a smooth roux. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the beef or vegetable broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming and to create a smooth sauce consistency.
- Increase heat to medium and continue stirring until the sauce thickens and begins to simmer, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce rest for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld and sauce to slightly cool.
- Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve if a completely smooth texture is desired, or serve as is for a more rustic presentation.
Tips
- Choose the right onions: Use fresh, firm onions for the best caramelization and depth of flavor.
- Patience is key: Low and slow cooking is crucial for developing rich, sweet caramelized notes.
- Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure even browning of the onions.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan to distribute heat evenly and prevent scorching.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider using a mix of butter and olive oil.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it with a little additional broth.
- For a smoother texture, consider using an immersion blender before straining.
- This sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 85kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
