Tennessee Onions

Tennessee Onions: Sweet and Savory Southern Comfort

  Tennessee Onions are a Southern delight that embodies the heartwarming flavors of the South. These onions are a symphony of sweet and savory, making them a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, burgers, or even served as a stand-alone side dish. Whether you’re a fan of Southern cuisine or simply looking to elevate your onion game, join us as we explore the secrets of creating Tennessee Onions that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large sweet onions (Vidalia or Walla Walla are excellent choices)
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Onions:

  1. Begin by peeling the sweet onions and slicing them into thick rounds, approximately 1/2-inch thick. Separate the rings and set them aside.

Create the Sauce: 2. In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.

  1. Stir in the brown sugar, soy sauce, beef or vegetable broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
  2. Bring the sauce to a simmer, and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
  3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set the sauce aside.

Grill or Broil the Onions: 6. Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat.

  1. Arrange the onion rounds on the grill grates or a broiler pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are slightly charred and tender. You want them to maintain a bit of crunch.

Glaze the Onions: 8. Brush the sweet onion rounds generously with the prepared sauce, turning them to coat both sides. Reserve some sauce for drizzling later.

  1. Continue grilling or broiling the onions for an additional 1-2 minutes on each side, basting them with more sauce as needed, until they caramelize and develop a beautiful glaze.

Serve and Garnish: 10. Transfer the Tennessee Onions to a serving platter.

  1. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the top of the onions for an extra burst of flavor.
  2. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a touch of freshness.

Enjoy the Southern Comfort: 13. Serve your Tennessee Onions alongside grilled meats, burgers, or as a delightful side dish that captures the essence of Southern comfort.

Cook’s Notes:

  • When grilling or broiling the onions, keep a close eye on them, as they can cook quickly, especially once the glaze is applied. You want them to be tender yet still have a slight crunch.
  • Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar to the sauce, according to your taste preference.
  • Tennessee Onions are a fantastic addition to cookouts and barbecue gatherings, but they’re also a versatile side dish that pairs well with various meals.
  • Leftovers, if there are any, can be refrigerated and reheated. Just be sure to store them with the glaze to maintain their deliciousness.

  Tennessee Onions are a delightful fusion of sweet and savory that captures the essence of Southern comfort cuisine. Whether gracing your dinner table at a summer barbecue or adding a touch of Southern charm to everyday meals, these onions are sure to become a family favorite. So, savor the sweet and savory symphony of Tennessee Onions and embrace the heartwarming flavors of the South.