Caramelized Onion Jam with Balsamic Vinegar

Stock your pantry with this delightful Caramelized Onion Jam with Balsamic Vinegar for an easy yet elegant appetizer. This savory jam is perfect for entertaining guests or simply enhancing your everyday meals. Its rich flavor and versatility make it a must-have in your kitchen, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a cozy family meal.

Why You’ll Love This Caramelized Onion Jam with Balsamic Vinegar

This recipe highlights the incredible taste of caramelized onions paired with the tangy notes of balsamic vinegar.

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create a gourmet spread at home.
• Versatile Use: Perfect as a topping for meats, burgers, or even on a cheese platter.
• Great for Entertaining: Impress your guests with this sophisticated addition to any appetizer spread.
• Ideal Pantry Staple: Store it in jars and have it ready whenever you need a quick flavor boost.
• Unique Flavor Profile: The sweet and savory combination is sure to elevate any dish.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes this process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Canning pot
• Jars (quarter-pint, half-pint, or pint-sized)
• Jar lids and rings
• Heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven
• Jar lifter
• Canning funnel

Importance of Each Tool

• Canning pot: Essential for processing jars safely while ensuring even heat distribution.
• Heavy-bottomed saucepan: Helps in evenly cooking the onions without burning them.
• Jar lifter: Provides safe handling of hot jars during the canning process.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Caramelized Onion Jam with Balsamic Vinegar:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 3 – 4 half pints

For the Jam

• 4 pounds sweet yellow onions, sliced
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 ½ cups balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons finely minced summer savory or try a combination of thyme and rosemary
• 2 teaspoons sea salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

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How to Make Caramelized Onion Jam with Balsamic Vinegar

Step 1: Prep for Canning

Prepare your canning equipment before making the jam to ensure safety and efficiency.

1. Fill a canning pot with water, placing the lid on top, and heat on high until boiling.
2. Gather clean jars; check that each is free from nicks that could prevent sealing.
3. Wash lids and rings in hot soapy water.

Step 2: Make the Jam

Now it’s time to create that delicious jam!

1. In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown (about 10-15 minutes).
3. Stir in sugar and balsamic vinegar; continue cooking for another 45 minutes or more until thickened to a syrupy consistency.
4. Finally, mix in salt, pepper, and herbs.

Step 3: Canning the Jam

Follow these steps if you wish to can your jam for longer storage.

1. Ladle hot jam into prepared jars, leaving approximately 1/4 headspace; use a canning funnel for ease.
2. Wipe jar rims clean; this is crucial for achieving a good seal.
3. Place lids on jars; screw bands on finger-tight.
4. Carefully lower jars into hot water using a jar lifter; ensure water covers jar tops by about an inch.
5. Bring water back to simmering point; set timer for processing time based on elevation (10 minutes at sea level).
6. Once processed, remove jars carefully and let cool on a towel-covered surface for about 24 hours.
7. Check seals after cooling; lids should be tight without flexing.

Enjoy your homemade Caramelized Onion Jam with Balsamic Vinegar, perfect for elevating any dish!

How to Serve Caramelized Onion Jam with Balsamic Vinegar

Caramelized onion jam with balsamic vinegar is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can elevate any dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a quiet night in, this jam makes for an easy yet elegant addition to your table.

On Charcuterie Boards

• Cheeses: Pair your jam with creamy cheeses like brie or tangy goat cheese for a delightful contrast.
• Cured Meats: Serve alongside prosciutto and salami to enhance the savory flavors of the meats.
• Crackers: Spread on whole grain or herb-infused crackers for a tasty bite that will impress your guests.

With Main Dishes

• Grilled Chicken: Spoon the jam over grilled chicken breasts for added sweetness and depth.
• Pork Tenderloin: Use it as a glaze for roasted pork to create a rich, savory experience.
• Burgers: Add a dollop on top of burgers for an unexpected and delicious twist.

In Sandwiches

• Grilled Cheese: Spread inside your grilled cheese sandwich for a gourmet touch that elevates this classic.
• Paninis: Layer between meats and cheeses in paninis for an irresistible flavor boost.

How to Perfect Caramelized Onion Jam with Balsamic Vinegar

To achieve the perfect caramelized onion jam, follow these tips. They will help you elevate your cooking technique and enhance the flavor profile of your jam.

• Bold Onions: Choose sweet yellow onions for the best flavor. They caramelize beautifully, bringing out their natural sweetness.
• Patience is Key: Allow the onions to cook slowly over medium heat. This helps develop their rich, caramel flavor without burning.
• Quality Vinegar: Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for depth. It adds acidity that balances the sweetness of the onions.
• Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist. They complement the jam’s flavor perfectly.
• Proper Storage: Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator if not canning. This keeps your jam fresh for longer.
• Check Consistency: The jam should be thick but pourable. If too runny, cook it down further until it reaches desired thickness.

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Best Side Dishes for Caramelized Onion Jam with Balsamic Vinegar

Caramelized onion jam pairs well with many side dishes, enhancing their flavors and adding sophistication. Here are some great options to consider when serving this delicious spread.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables in olive oil and roast until tender; serve alongside the jam as a dipping option.
2. Stuffed Mushrooms: Fill mushrooms with cream cheese or feta, bake, and then top with onion jam for an appetizer hit.
3. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make an excellent base for drizzling caramelized onion jam on top.
4. Brussels Sprouts Salad: Shaved Brussels sprouts tossed with olive oil and lemon juice pair nicely when topped with a spoonful of jam.
5. Polenta Fries: Crispy polenta fries offer a great texture contrast when served with this sweet-savory condiment.
6. Caprese Salad Skewers: Stack cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil on skewers; drizzle with balsamic onion jam before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Caramelized Onion Jam with Balsamic Vinegar, avoid these common errors for the best results.

• Rushing the Cooking Process: Caramelizing onions takes time. Don’t rush it; low and slow cooking will yield better flavor.
• Using Low-Quality Vinegar: The balsamic vinegar you choose impacts the taste. Opt for a high-quality brand for richer flavor.
• Neglecting to Stir: If you don’t stir occasionally, the jam can stick or burn. Keep an eye on it as it cooks.
• Ignoring pH Levels: For canning, ensure your jam has the right acidity. Avoid using too much sugar that could alter pH balance.
• Overfilling Jars: Leaving no headspace can cause jars not to seal properly. Always leave a 1/4 headspace when filling jars.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Use within 2-3 weeks for best quality.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or jars.
• Can store for up to 6 months; allow to cool completely before freezing.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm in a covered dish for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Caramelized Onion Jam with Balsamic Vinegar used for?

This savory jam is perfect as a spread or condiment. It pairs well with meats, cheeses, and gourmet sandwiches.

How do I store leftover Caramelized Onion Jam?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks or freeze for longer storage.

Can I use other types of vinegar?

Yes, while balsamic vinegar is recommended for its flavor, you can experiment with other vinegars like red wine vinegar for different tastes.

How long does it take to make Caramelized Onion Jam with Balsamic Vinegar?

The total time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, including prep and cooking times.

Is this recipe suitable for canning?

Yes, this recipe is safe for water bath canning due to its acidity level. Follow proper canning guidelines to ensure safety.

Final Thoughts

Caramelized Onion Jam with Balsamic Vinegar is not only delicious but also versatile. Its sweet and savory notes elevate many dishes, making it an ideal pantry staple. Feel free to customize it by adding herbs or spices that suit your taste!