These Vegan Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes are creamy and packed with flavor! The sweet, soft onions add a delicious twist to the classic dish.
Trust me, the smell of cooking onions is hard to resist! I love serving these with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It’s the perfect comfort food for any meal! 🥔💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes give a creamy texture and buttery flavor. However, Russet potatoes work just as well! If you want to cut carbs, try using cauliflower instead—just ensure it’s well-drained for the right consistency.
Onions: I recommend using yellow onions for their sweetness when caramelized. You can swap them for red onions for a different flavor. If onions aren’t your thing, shallots can make a great substitute too!
Olive Oil: It adds flavor and helps in cooking. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil or coconut oil can work too, but the taste will vary slightly.
Plant-Based Milk: I love almond milk for a subtle nutty flavor. Oat milk is creamier, making it a great choice for mashed potatoes. You can also use rice milk, though it’s thinner; just be cautious with the liquid amount.
Vegan Butter: This adds richness to the mash. You can swap it with coconut oil for a lighter option, but the flavor will change a bit. For a lower-fat version, you might try mashed avocado!
How Do I Get My Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions is key to bringing out their natural sweetness. Be patient; this process can take time but is worth it! Here’s how to get them just right:
- Heat your skillet over medium-low heat with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Low heat is essential for even cooking.
- Add sliced onions and stir until they’re coated in oil. Let them cook slowly, stirring occasionally.
- If they start to stick to the pan, splash in a little water to help deglaze and prevent burning.
- Cook for about 25-30 minutes until they turn a deep, golden brown. Add minced garlic during the last 2 minutes for extra flavor.
Don’t rush this step! The caramelization adds a rich flavor that elevates your mashed potatoes.
Vegan Caramelized Onion Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat)
- 3 tablespoons vegan butter or margarine
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Garnishing:
- Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dish takes about 15-20 minutes to prep the potatoes and another 30-35 minutes to caramelize the onions. Overall, you’re looking at around 50-60 minutes from start to finish, which is totally worth it for a comforting side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Boiling the Potatoes:
First, grab a large pot and place the peeled and chopped potatoes inside. Fill the pot with cold water just enough to cover the potatoes and add a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and let it cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. You can check by piercing them with a fork!
2. Caramelizing the Onions:
While the potatoes are cooking, let’s make those delicious caramelized onions! In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and give them a good stir to coat in the oil. Let them cook slowly for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If they start to stick to the bottom of the pan, just add a splash of water to loosen them up. You want them to turn a beautiful golden brown!
3. Adding Garlic:
When the onions are caramelized to your liking (deep and golden), it’s time to add the minced garlic. Stir it in during the last two minutes of cooking; this will make your kitchen smell heavenly! Once cooked, take the skillet off the heat.
4. Preparing the Mashed Potatoes:
When the potatoes are ready, drain them well and return them to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Add in the vegan butter, plant-based milk, the last tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Get a potato masher (or electric mixer if you prefer) and start mashing them until they’re nice and creamy. For a smoother texture, you can mix for longer!
5. Mixing in the Onions:
Fold in half of the caramelized onions into the mashed potatoes, saving the rest for topping later. It’s all about that delicious onion flavor throughout!
6. Serving It Up:
Transfer your creamy mashed potatoes to a serving bowl, and top them with the remaining caramelized onions. If you like, sprinkle some fresh thyme leaves on top for extra flavor and color!
7. Enjoy!
Serve these tasty mashed potatoes warm and enjoy every creamy, savory bite! Perfect alongside your favorite plant-based main dishes or on their own!
This recipe yields rich, creamy mashed potatoes with a sweet and savory caramelized onion flavor, perfect for any vegan comfort food craving!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Yukon Gold and Russet potatoes are recommended for their creaminess, you can use other varieties like red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a unique flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
Can I Prepare Caramelized Onions in Advance?
Yes, you can! Cook the caramelized onions ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to use them, just reheat in a skillet or microwave before adding to your mashed potatoes.
How Do I Store Leftover Mashed Potatoes?
Store any leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of plant-based milk to loosen them up and warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make These Mashed Potatoes Oil-Free?
Yes! You can skip the oil and use vegetable broth or unsweetened plant-based milk for cooking the onions. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but they will still be delicious!
