Fried Onion / تلی ہوئی پیاز / Tali hui Pyaaz

Tali Hui Pyaaz, or Fried Onions, are an extremely essential and fundamental component in South Asian and Middle Eastern cooking. Onions are finely sliced or diced and then deep-fried or sautéed over low heat until they achieve a deep golden or brown color. This process causes the onions to lose their sharp, pungent flavor, transforming them into a sweet, crisp, and highly aromatic form. Fried onions are utilized in two primary ways: first, they are often ground into a paste to deepen the flavor and color of the masalas (spices) that form the base of rich curries like Korma or Salan; and second, they are used as a garnish or topping for dishes such as Biryani, Pulao, and Daal, which provides the dish with both flavor and a delightful crispiness. The preparation of perfect fried onions is often considered the first crucial step in making an authentic curry or biryani.