Braised Onions a La Julia Child

These onions are included in the recipe for Boeuf Bourguignon, but they are so wonderful, that they deserve to be posted on their own. I think they are best with fresh pearl onions, but frozen are a fine substitute. You do need to use good stock though (Julia's beef stock is posted at #147999) Honestly, these are so delicious that I have a hard time not eating them before the meal is served. Prep time does NOT include peeling the onions (the hardest part of this).

• Ready In: 1 hr
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1  lb  white pearl onion, peeled (may substitute frozen)
• 1 1⁄2 tablespoons butter, unsalted
• 1 1⁄2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1⁄2 cup  unsalted beef stock, defatted
•  salt & fresh ground pepper
• 1  bay leaf, preferably fresh
• 1  sprig thyme
• 2  sprigs parsley

Directions

1. If you are using fresh pearl onions, they are easier to peel if you blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds and then run them under cold water to cool.
2. If you are using frozen pearl onions, make sure they are defrosted and drained.
3. Heat the butter and oil in a large skillet and add the onions to the skillet.
4. Saute over medium heat for about ten minutes, rolling the onions about so they brown as evenly as possible without breaking apart.
5. Pour in the stock, add the herbs, and cover.
6. Simmer over low heat for about 40 to 50 minutes until the onions are perfectly tender but retain their shape and the liquid has mostly evaporated.
7. Remove the herbs, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve.