Discover the secret to making delicious Fast Caramelized Onions with our step-by-step recipe. From burgers to charcuterie boards, this sweet and savory jam adds a gourmet touch to your favorite dishes!
Caramelized onions are a versatile condiment that will elevate any dish; with this recipe, you can achieve that rich, caramelized flavor in a fraction of the time it typically takes, about 20 minutes!
Picture the sweet caramelization of red onions mingled with the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar, crafting a harmonious blend of flavors.
Whether topping your favorite burger sliders, enhancing a charcuterie board, or adding a savory depth to an appetizer, this versatile jam will become a go-to recipe!
Ingredients
- olive oil
- red onion
- balsamic vinegar
- sugar
- salt and pepper
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add sliced red onions and cook until caramelized (light golden) and softened, stirring occasionally for about 8-12 minutes.
- Add balsamic vinegar and sugar, cooking for 1-2 more minutes, until slightly syrupy. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy!
Hint: Don't try to rush the cooking time. You need to give the onions time to wilt down over medium heat without burning.
Substitutions
- Onion - You can use other onions: yellow, sweet, or white. They will all give the jam a slightly different flavor.
- Diced Onion Jam - Dice the onions instead of thinly slicing if you prefer that texture.
- Olive Oil - Substitute another oil or butter.
- Sugar - You could probably omit the sugar, but we don't recommend it because it helps balance the balsamic vinegar's tartness.
Equipment
To make this balsamic sweet onion jam, you'll need a sharp knife and a pan (this cast iron pan is our favorite).
How to eat caramelized onion jam
- As a burger topping
- In these Smash Burger Sliders
- Put on a charcuterie board
- Enjoy on a crostini with cream cheese or a slice of parmesan
- To top grilled chicken, a hot dog, or even meatloaf
- Baked Brie with Onion Jam - Slice the top off of your brie wheel and bake your brie at 375° for about 10 minutes then top with the balsamic onion jam and serve with crackers or toasted baguette.
- Grilled Cheese with Onion Jam - Add the jam to your favorite grilled cheese!
Storage
- Storage - This jam will last in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing - You can freeze these in a freezer safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw before enjoying.
- Reheating - Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warm.
Fast Caramelized Onions FAQ
Balsamic onion jam contains red onions, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, sugar, salt and pepper.
Balsamic Onions will last in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
You can top a burger, hot dog, or grilled chicken, enjoy it on a charcuterie board, on a baked brie, or even on a grilled cheese. There are endless possibilities!
What to try next:
Check out some of our other delicious recipes!
Balsamic Onion Jam
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red onion thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add sliced red onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally for about 8-12 minutes, until softened.
- Add balsamic vinegar and sugar, cooking for 1-2 more minutes, until slightly syrupy. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy!
PC says
Holy smokes! Couldn’t be easier and packs a burst of flavor!! Love, love , LOVE these!
Liz says
Thank you for the great review! 🙂