If you're ready to take your taste buds on a delightful journey, look no further than the Caramelized Bourbon and Brown Sugar Onion Jam Panini! This mouthwatering creation features sweet, caramelized onions infused with rich bourbon and brown sugar, all nestled between perfectly grilled slices of bread and gooey cheese. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can whip up a gourmet sandwich that will impress friends and family alike. Ready to elevate your lunch game? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that promises to be a crowd-pleaser!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup bourbon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 8 slices of bread
- 4 slices of cheese (your choice)
- Butter for grilling
Instructions
- Prepare the onions by peeling and thinly slicing them into uniform half-moon shapes using a sharp knife.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-low heat and add a small amount of olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Add sliced onions to the skillet and cook slowly, stirring occasionally to ensure even caramelization, which will take approximately 15-20 minutes.
- Once onions begin to turn golden brown, add bourbon and brown sugar, stirring continuously to prevent burning and help create a rich, sticky glaze.
- Continue cooking until onions are deep golden brown and the liquid has reduced to a syrupy consistency, about 5-7 more minutes.
- Remove onion jam from heat and let cool slightly while preparing the panini.
- Butter the exterior sides of each bread slice for optimal grilling and crispy texture.
- Layer the interior of each sandwich with cheese and a generous portion of the bourbon-caramelized onion jam.
- Preheat a panini press or heavy skillet to medium-high heat.
- Grill the sandwiches until bread is golden brown and cheese is completely melted, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove from heat, let rest for 1-2 minutes, then slice diagonally and serve immediately.
Tips
- Choose the Right Onions: For the best flavor, use sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla. Their natural sweetness will enhance the caramelization process.
- Low and Slow: Patience is key when caramelizing onions. Cooking them over medium-low heat allows the natural sugars to develop beautifully without burning.
- Bourbon Substitutes: If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with apple cider or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a different yet delicious flavor profile.
- Cheese Selection: Experiment with different types of cheese! Gruyère, sharp cheddar, or even a creamy goat cheese can add a unique twist to your panini.
- Grilling Technique: Make sure to butter the outside of the bread generously for that perfect golden-brown crust. If you don’t have a panini press, a heavy skillet with a weight on top works just as well.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your panini with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal. A side of pickles or chips can also add a nice crunch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
