Easy Homemade Red Onion Jam Recipe – Sweet & Savoury Spread

Discover the magic of homemade red onion jam! This delectable condiment transforms ordinary red onions into a sweet, tangy, and complex spread that will elevate your culinary creations. With a perfect balance of flavors from slowly reduced red wine and balsamic vinegar, this jam is a versatile addition to your kitchen repertoire.

A Gourmet Touch for Any Dish

Red onion jam isn’t just your average condiment. It’s a flavor-packed spread that can take your meals from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re looking to jazz up a cheese board, add depth to a sandwich, or create a unique topping for grilled meats, this jam has got you covered. The slow cooking process beautifully melds the sharp bite of red onions with the rich complexity of red wine and the sweet-tart notes of balsamic vinegar, resulting in a luxurious, spreadable consistency that’s bursting with flavor.

Simple Ingredients, Spectacular Results

Don’t let the gourmet taste fool you – this red onion jam is surprisingly simple to make. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll create a condiment that rivals those found in high-end delis and gourmet food shops. The key is in the slow cooking process, which allows the flavors to develop and intensify, transforming humble onions into something truly special.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 pounds red onions, halved and thinly sliced
• 1 cup dry red wine
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt, plus more to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste

Directions

1. Sauté the Onions

   Begin by heating the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the thinly sliced red onions and cook them with care, stirring occasionally, for about 8 to 10 minutes. You’re looking for the onions to soften and become just translucent, releasing their initial pungency and beginning to sweeten.

2. Create the Jammy Base

   Once your onions have softened, it’s time to introduce the elements that will transform them into a luscious jam. Pour in the dry red wine, sprinkle in the light brown sugar, and add the chopped fresh thyme. The wine will deglaze the pan, picking up all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Now, drizzle in the balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.

3. Simmer to Perfection

   Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Here’s where patience becomes your best friend. Let the mixture simmer slowly for about an hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. During this time, the liquid will reduce and thicken, becoming syrupy and intensely flavored. The onions will continue to break down, creating that perfect jammy consistency.

4. Season and Cool

   As the jam nears completion, taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Remember, flavors intensify as the jam cools, so be cautious with the salt. Once you’re happy with the taste and consistency, transfer your onion jam to a bowl and let it cool to room temperature.

5. Serve or Store

   Your red onion jam is now ready to enjoy! Serve it immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you’ve refrigerated the jam, allow it to come back to room temperature before serving to fully appreciate its complex flavors and smooth texture.

Notes

• This recipe yields about 1 1/2 cups of jam, perfect for multiple uses or to share with friends.
• Experiment with different types of red wine to subtly alter the flavor profile of your jam.
• For a spicier version, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the cooking process.
• This jam pairs wonderfully with sharp cheeses, crusty bread, or as a topping for burgers and grilled meats.

Culinary Applications

The versatility of this red onion jam is truly remarkable. Spread it on a crusty baguette and top with goat cheese for an instant appetizer. Use it as a condiment for your favorite burger or sandwich to add a gourmet touch. It’s also an excellent accompaniment to a cheese board, particularly with aged cheddars or creamy bries. For a unique twist, try it as a glaze for roasted meats or as a topping for baked brie. The possibilities are endless, limited only by your culinary imagination!

Make-Ahead Magic

One of the best things about this red onion jam is how well it keeps. Make a batch on the weekend, and you’ll have a secret weapon in your fridge ready to elevate meals throughout the week. It’s an excellent way to add a punch of flavor to quick weeknight dinners or to have on hand for impromptu gatherings. As the jam sits, the flavors continue to meld and develop, making it even more delicious over time.