Caramelized Onion Toasts

I love onions. Like them in most everything I make. I especially love them when they have been slow cooked and caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness. The onions, once cooked, can be used in sandwiches, with cheese and crackers as an appetizer or used as a topper on breads. I place some on rye bread squares and topped that with squares of Swiss cheese. Toasted until cheese was melted and onions were heated through. Yummy!!

These are a great appetizer because you can make then ahead and reheat when ready to serve. You can serve them on bread, crackers, with tortilla chips or on tortillas. I sometimes serve the onions with slices of smoked sausages, too.

I sometimes make a double batch and freeze some for later.

Caramelized Onions

2 lbs. Onions, chopped

3 T. oil

1 t. salt

2 T. brown sugar

¼ c. balsamic vinegar

Dash red hot pepper sauce

Paprika

Sauté onions in oil with salt over low heat for 25-30 minutes. Onions should begin to caramelize and brown without burning. Add remaining ingredients and cook slowly another 15 minutes. Adjust seasonings, if needed and serve warm with crusty bread, crackers or smoked meats. Keeps in fridge for a couple of weeks or can be frozen.