How long to boil onions?

Onions typically take about 25 to 30 minutes to become soft and tender in boiling water. If you want them very silky, let them simmer a little longer. For the broth to deepen in flavor, keep the lid slightly cracked as it cooks.

How to make an onion boil?

Making an onion boil is as simple as adding peeled onions to a pot of water with salt. Bring it to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer. You can enhance the broth with garlic, herbs, or a splash of vinegar depending on whether you’re using it for wellness or meals.

What are boiling onions?

“Boiling onions” are a specific variety of small white or yellow onions, typically around 1 to 2 inches in diameter. They hold their shape well and are often used in stews or roasts. But truthfully, any onion can be used in a good onion boil recipe , as long as it’s fresh and firm.

How long does it take to boil an onion?

It depends on size and cut. Whole small onions may take 25–35 minutes, while thick slices or wedges soften in 20–25 minutes. Test with a fork—when it glides in easily, they’re done.

Onion Boil: 5 Simple Steps to Make This Soothing Classic

Name: Onion Boil: 5 Simple Steps to Make This Soothing Classic
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2–3 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large yellow onions; 4 cups filtered water; 1 garlic clove, smashed (optional); 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional); Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley (optional)

Description

This onion boil recipe is warm, soothing, and deeply flavorful. Whether used as a healing broth or a gentle side dish, boiled onions offer natural sweetness and simple comfort.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large yellow onions

4 cups filtered water

1 garlic clove, smashed (optional)

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)

Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Peel the onions and cut them in halves or thick wedges.

2. Place the onions in a medium pot with the water, salt, and optional ingredients like garlic or herbs.

3. Bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

4. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes.

5. Test with a fork—the onions should be soft and translucent.

6. Taste the broth and adjust with more salt or a splash of lemon if desired.

7. Serve warm in a bowl with the broth, or use the onions as a side dish.

Notes

Add turmeric or ginger to the broth for a wellness boost.

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container with broth.

You can blend the onions and broth into a light soup.

Serve over grains, next to roasted vegetables, or with crusty bread.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 60
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 290mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg