If there’s one condiment that can elevate any dish, it’s onion jam. Sweet, savory, and perfectly caramelized, this spreadable delight adds depth to everything from grilled cheese sandwiches to charcuterie boards. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a versatile kitchen staple, this easy onion jam recipe is a must-try.
A simple appetizer to serve is Onion Jam on Ricotta and Crostini. It’s easy, impressive and absolutely delicious.
Why You’ll Love Onion Jam
Incredibly Versatile: Spread it on toast, top a burger, or serve alongside creamy cheeses. The possibilities are endless!
Simple Ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and enjoy its flavors for days to come.
Perfect for Entertaining: Pair it with crackers and goat cheese or goat cheese for an impressive yet easy appetizer.
Ingredients for Onion Jam
This recipe combines three types of onions for a balance of sweetness, depth, and complexity:
1 Red Onion: Adds vibrant color and a touch of tartness.
1 Sweet Onion: Provides natural sweetness for balance.
1 White Onion: Offers a mild, savory flavor.
3 tbsp Butter: For rich, caramelized goodness.
1 tbsp Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall flavor.
2 tbsp Coarse Sea Salt: Enhances the onion’s natural sweetness.
1 tsp Fresh Cracked Black Pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice.
1 tbsp Sugar: Helps with caramelization.
Optional Add-Ins: A splash of balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or red wine vinegar for a tangy twist.
Directions
Slice the Onions: Thinly slice the red, sweet, and white onions. Set aside.
Heat the Pan: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil. Add a sprig of rosemary for extra depth if desired.
Cook the Onions: Add the sliced onions, sea salt, black pepper, and sugar to the pan. Stir well to coat the onions in the butter and oil mixture.
Caramelize the Onions: Cook the onions over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until they soften.
Slow Cook to Perfection: Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking for 45 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure even caramelization.
Optional Vinegar Addition: Stir in 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a tangy kick.
Cool & Store: Once golden and jammy, allow the onion jam to cool. Transfer to a jar and refrigerate for up to 10 days.
How to Use Onion Jam
Spread It: Perfect on toast, bagels, or crackers.
Top It: Add a spoonful to burgers, hot dogs, or baked brie.
Pair It: Serve alongside soft cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese.
Mix It: Stir into pasta, risotto, or French onion soup for a flavor boost.
Expert Tips
Choose the Right Onions: Combining red, sweet, and white onions creates a balanced flavor profile.
Don’t Rush the Process: Low and slow is the key to perfectly caramelized onions.
Add a Tangy Touch: A splash of balsamic vinegar, red wine, or cider vinegar takes this jam to the next level.
Canning Option: For long-term storage, use a water bath canning method to preserve your onion jam.
Why Onion Jam is a Must-Have
Onion jam is the ultimate kitchen multitasker. With its sweet and savory profile, it pairs beautifully with cheese boards, grilled meats, or even a simple slice of sourdough. It’s the kind of recipe that tastes gourmet but is surprisingly easy to make.
Variations to Try
Add Brown Sugar: Swap the white sugar for brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-like sweetness.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Air Fryer Shortcut: Cook the onions in an air fryer for a quick caramelization.
Wine-Infused Jam: Replace 1 tablespoon of water with red wine for a more robust flavor.
FAQs
How Long Does Onion Jam Last?
Stored in an airtight container, onion jam will keep in the fridge for up to 10 days.
Can I Freeze Onion Jam?
Yes, freeze the jam in small portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
What’s the Difference Between Onion Jam and Caramelized Onions?
While both are slow-cooked, onion jam includes sugar and optional vinegar for a sweet and tangy spreadable texture.
Final Thoughts
This onion jam recipe is your new go-to for adding a gourmet touch to everyday dishes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or upgrading your grilled cheese game, this recipe will leave everyone asking for more.
How to Use Onion Jam
Spread It: Perfect on toast, bagels, or crackers.
Top It: Add a spoonful to burgers, hot dogs, or baked brie.
Pair It: Serve alongside soft cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese.
Mix It: Stir into pasta, risotto, or French onion soup for a flavor boost.
Expert Tips
Choose the Right Onions: Combining red, sweet, and white onions creates a balanced flavor profile.
Don’t Rush the Process: Low and slow is the key to perfectly caramelized onions.
Add a Tangy Touch: A splash of balsamic vinegar, red wine, or cider vinegar takes this jam to the next level.
Canning Option: For long-term storage, use a water bath canning method to preserve your onion jam.
Why Onion Jam is a Must-Have
Onion jam is the ultimate kitchen multitasker. With its sweet and savory profile, it pairs beautifully with cheese boards, grilled meats, or even a simple slice of sourdough. It’s the kind of recipe that tastes gourmet but is surprisingly easy to make.
Variations to Try
Add Brown Sugar: Swap the white sugar for brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-like sweetness.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Air Fryer Shortcut: Cook the onions in an air fryer for a quick caramelization.
Wine-Infused Jam: Replace 1 tablespoon of water with red wine for a more robust flavor.
FAQs
How Long Does Onion Jam Last?
Stored in an airtight container, onion jam will keep in the fridge for up to 10 days.
Can I Freeze Onion Jam?
Yes, freeze the jam in small portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
What’s the Difference Between Onion Jam and Caramelized Onions?
While both are slow-cooked, onion jam includes sugar and optional vinegar for a sweet and tangy spreadable texture.
Final Thoughts
This onion jam recipe is your new go-to for adding a gourmet touch to everyday dishes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or upgrading your grilled cheese game, this recipe will leave everyone asking for more.
How to Use Onion Jam
Spread It: Perfect on toast, bagels, or crackers.
Top It: Add a spoonful to burgers, hot dogs, or baked brie.
Pair It: Serve alongside soft cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese.
Mix It: Stir into pasta, risotto, or French onion soup for a flavor boost.
Expert Tips
Choose the Right Onions: Combining red, sweet, and white onions creates a balanced flavor profile.
Don’t Rush the Process: Low and slow is the key to perfectly caramelized onions.
Add a Tangy Touch: A splash of balsamic vinegar, red wine, or cider vinegar takes this jam to the next level.
Canning Option: For long-term storage, use a water bath canning method to preserve your onion jam.
Why Onion Jam is a Must-Have
Onion jam is the ultimate kitchen multitasker. With its sweet and savory profile, it pairs beautifully with cheese boards, grilled meats, or even a simple slice of sourdough. It’s the kind of recipe that tastes gourmet but is surprisingly easy to make.
Variations to Try
Add Brown Sugar: Swap the white sugar for brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-like sweetness.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Air Fryer Shortcut: Cook the onions in an air fryer for a quick caramelization.
Wine-Infused Jam: Replace 1 tablespoon of water with red wine for a more robust flavor.
FAQs
How Long Does Onion Jam Last?
Stored in an airtight container, onion jam will keep in the fridge for up to 10 days.
Can I Freeze Onion Jam?
Yes, freeze the jam in small portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
What’s the Difference Between Onion Jam and Caramelized Onions?
While both are slow-cooked, onion jam includes sugar and optional vinegar for a sweet and tangy spreadable texture.
Final Thoughts
This onion jam recipe is your new go-to for adding a gourmet touch to everyday dishes. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or upgrading your grilled cheese game, this recipe will leave everyone asking for more.
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Christopher is a food and lifestyle expert, recipe developer and the content creator behind May Eighty Five. With over 6 years of creating recipes for your favourite food brands, he also shares tips, tricks and how to’s that he has learnt over the years. Every week, he shares quick, simple and mostly healthy recipes along with some home and entertaining tips. You will find flavorful cocktails, delicious appetizers, tasty mains and some indulgent desserts.
