Imagine a condiment so magical it can elevate any dish from ordinary to extraordinary. This Onion Jam by Damaris Phillips is not just a recipe – it's a flavor revolution waiting to happen in your kitchen! With its perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and rich flavors, this onion jam will become your new secret weapon for creating restaurant-quality meals at home. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, get ready to discover a recipe that will make your taste buds dance with excitement!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 4 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Thinly slice the 4 large onions and set them aside. Make sure to use a sharp knife for clean cuts, which will help them cook evenly.
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up for a minute; you can test if it’s ready by flicking a drop of water into the pan. If it sizzles, the oil is ready.
- Add the sliced onions to the pan, stirring them gently to coat them in the olive oil. Cook the onions over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent, about 10-15 minutes.
- Once the onions are softened, sprinkle in 1/2 cup of brown sugar. Stir well to combine the sugar with the onions. The sugar will help to caramelize the onions, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently. After about 10 minutes, the onions will start to turn a golden brown color. Be careful not to let them burn; adjust the heat if necessary.
- Next, pour in 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar. This will add depth and acidity to the jam, balancing out the sweetness from the onions and sugar. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mixture should thicken and become jam-like in consistency.
- As the onion jam cooks, taste it and add salt to your preference. Start with a pinch and adjust as needed, keeping in mind that a little salt can enhance the flavors significantly.
- Once the onion jam has reached your desired thickness and flavor, remove it from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly before transferring it to a clean jar or container.
- Let the onion jam cool completely at room temperature before sealing it. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy it on sandwiches, burgers, or as a topping for cheese platters!
Tips
- Choose the Right Onions: Use sweet varieties like Vidalia or yellow onions for the best flavor profile.
- Slice Consistently: Ensure all onion slices are roughly the same thickness to promote even cooking.
- Patience is Key: Cook the onions slowly on medium-low heat to develop deep, complex flavors without burning.
- Watch the Caramelization: The golden-brown color is crucial – it's where the magic of flavor development happens.
- Use High-Quality Balsamic: A good balsamic vinegar can dramatically improve the overall taste of your jam.
- Store Properly: Keep the jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and flavor.
- Experiment with Serving: Try this jam on grilled meats, as a sandwich spread, or as a gourmet cheese accompaniment.Pro Tip: If the jam becomes too thick while cooking, you can always thin it out with a little water or additional balsamic vinegar.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 133kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 1g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
