Are you looking for a quick and easy way to elevate your everyday meals? Then look no further! This Balsamic Onion Jam recipe is a delicious and versatile condiment that's perfect for adding a burst of sweet and tangy flavor to everything from burgers and sandwiches to grilled meats and roasted vegetables. It's surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and cooking time, making it an ideal addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. This homemade cooking project is also a fantastic way to impress your friends and family with a sophisticated, yet surprisingly simple, delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes. This is where the magic happens – the slow caramelization brings out the natural sweetness of the onions. Don’t rush this step!
Step 2: Simmer the Jam
Once the onions are caramelized, stir in the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook, uncovered, for another 15-20 minutes, or until the jam has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Cool and Store
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the balsamic onion jam cool completely. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. This jam will keep for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Balsamic Onion Jam:
- Thinly sliced onions: Using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife ensures even cooking and caramelization.
- Low and slow: Patience is key! Cooking the onions over low heat allows them to caramelize properly without burning.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large amount of onions, consider cooking them in batches to prevent steaming instead of caramelizing.
- Taste and adjust: Adjust the amount of brown sugar and balsamic vinegar to your liking. Some prefer a sweeter jam, while others prefer a more tangy flavor.
Variations:
- Spicy Balsamic Onion Jam: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herb-infused Balsamic Onion Jam: Stir in a tablespoon of fresh thyme or rosemary during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Red Onion Jam: Substitute red onions for yellow onions for a slightly sharper flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields about 1 cup of balsamic onion jam. Nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a typical serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 80-100
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Protein: 1-2g
- Fat: 2-3g
This Balsamic Onion Jam is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and best recipes. Its versatility makes it a perfect pantry staple, easily transforming simple dishes into culinary masterpieces. Enjoy!