Easy Caramelized Onion Flatbread

This caramelized onion flatbread is rich, savory, and simple to make at home. The recipe uses a homemade flatbread base, layered with sweet onions, vegan cheese, and fresh arugula. It is perfect for an appetizer, a light dinner, or a shareable side dish.

Here’s What You Need to Make this Caramelized Onion Flatbread:

For the Caramelized Onions

• Vegan butter: Used to sauté the onions, it helps them soften and develop rich, deep flavor as they cook. We like to use Country Crock Plant Butter.
• Sweet onions: Provide natural sugars that caramelize slowly, creating a sweet and savory base for the flatbread.
• Salt: Draws out moisture from the onions and balances the sweetness.
• Sugar: Speeds up the caramelization process and deepens the color of the onions.
• Garlic: Adds bold, savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the onions.
• Sage: Brings an earthy, aromatic note that pairs well with the caramelized onions.

For the Dough

• All-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the flatbread dough and creates a sturdy base for toppings.
• Baking powder gives the dough lightness, making the crust less dense.
• Garlic powder: Infuses the dough itself with flavor before baking.
• Salt: Enhances flavor throughout the dough.
• Warm water: Helps bind the dough and activate the baking powder.
• Olive oil: Adds richness to the dough and prevents dryness.
• Maple syrup (optional): Brushed on with non-dairy milk, it encourages browning for a golden crust.
• Non-dairy milk (optional): Combined with maple syrup, it gives the crust a glossy, bakery-style finish.

For Assembly

• Vegan mozzarella: Creates a melty, creamy layer that holds the caramelized onions in place. We like to use Daiya or Follow Your Heart Shreds.
• Vegan parmesan: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that balances the sweetness of the onions. We like to use Violife Parmesan Wedge.
• Arugula: A peppery, fresh topping that adds contrast after baking.
• Olive oil: Brushed over the dough and drizzled on top to keep everything crisp and flavorful.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Caramelize the onions

1. Melt vegan butter in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Stir to coat.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally.
4. After 10 minutes, stir in garlic and sage.
5. Continue cooking until onions are deep golden and soft, about 30 minutes. If they begin to stick, add a splash of water. Set aside to cool.

2. Make the dough

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Add warm water and olive oil. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Knead until smooth, about 2 minutes. Add flour if sticky.
5. Roll the dough into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick. If the dough resists, cover with a damp towel and rest for 10 minutes.

3. Par-bake the crust

1. Place rolled dough on a baking sheet.
2. Use a fork to poke holes across the surface.
3. Brush or drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 10 minutes.

4. Assemble the flatbread

1. Remove the crust from the oven.
2. For golden edges, mix maple syrup with non-dairy milk and brush onto the crust border.
3. Spread vegan mozzarella evenly across the dough.
4. Top with caramelized onions and vegan parmesan.

5. Bake again

1. Return the flatbread to the oven. Bake 17-20 minutes, until cheese melts and crust is golden.
2. Let cool for at least 5 minutes.

6. Finish and serve

1. Top with arugula and a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Slice and serve warm.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan: For caramelizing the onions.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: To stir the onions without scratching the pan.
• Sharp knife and cutting board: For slicing onions, chopping sage, and mincing garlic.
• Mixing bowls: One large for the dough, one small for brushing liquid mixtures.
• Baking sheet: To bake the flatbread.
• Rolling pin: For rolling out the dough to the correct thickness.
• Pastry brush: To brush olive oil or maple syrup mixture onto the crust.
• Cooling rack (optional): To cool the baked flatbread without trapping steam.
• Pizza cutter or sharp knife: For slicing the flatbread before serving.

Serving ideas

• Pair with a simple green salad for a light meal.
• Slice into small squares for party appetizers.
• Serve alongside soup for a comforting lunch.

Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm and crisp. Avoid microwaving, which softens the crust.

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