Ingredients

• 1 medium red onion
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 1 medium white onion
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• ½ teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1–2 teaspoons white pepper
• 2–3 bay leaves
• A few drops of liquid smoke, to taste
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Prep the onions:
   Slice all three onions into thin strips. Try to keep them roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
2. Start cooking:
   Melt the butter in a pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook for about 4–5 minutes, just until they start to soften and turn a little golden.
3. Caramelize:
   Turn the heat down to medium-low. Let the onions cook slowly for 1–2 hours, stirring now and then. They’ll turn brown, sweet, and smell amazing. This is where the flavor happens, so don’t rush it.
4. Add the rest:
   Pour in the beef broth, water, liquid smoke, rosemary, fennel, white pepper, and bay leaves. Stir well and bring it to a gentle simmer.
5. Simmer and finish:
   Let it simmer for 30–45 minutes so everything blends together. Taste and add salt as needed.
6. Serve: