To avoid the smell of burning onions in your kitchen, consider the following tips:
Adjust cooking temperature: Use medium to medium-low heat when sautéing onions. High heat increases the risk of burning, while lower heat allows the onions to caramelize slowly without releasing a strong odor.
Use the right oil: Choose a cooking oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil. Oils with lower smoke points, like olive oil, may burn at higher temperatures and contribute to the smell.
Stir frequently: Keep the onions moving in the pan to ensure even cooking and prevent them from sticking and burning. Stirring will also help distribute the heat evenly.
Add a splash of water: If you notice the onions are starting to burn, you can add a splash of water to the pan. The water will evaporate quickly, cooling down the pan and preventing further burning.
Use a non-stick or well-seasoned pan: Cooking in a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet can help prevent onions from sticking and burning.
Ventilation and air circulation: Make sure your kitchen is well-ventilated. Turn on the range hood or open windows to allow the smelly air to escape and fresh air to circulate.
Cook in batches: If you're cooking a large quantity of onions, consider cooking them in batches instead of overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can cause uneven cooking and increase the chances of burning.
Prevent overcrowding: When sautéing onions with other ingredients, make sure the pan isn't too crowded. Overcrowding can trap moisture, making it difficult for the onions to caramelize properly.
Add acidic ingredients: Adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to the onions can help neutralize odors and add a pleasant tangy flavor.
Clean the pan promptly: If your onions do burn despite your efforts, remove them from the pan immediately to prevent the burnt smell from lingering. Clean the pan thoroughly afterward.
Remember that burnt onions can produce a strong smell that may be challenging to eliminate entirely. Prevention is key to avoiding the smell, so keep a close eye on your cooking and adjust heat and techniques accordingly.