Honey-Glazed Pearl Onions with Citrus and Herbs
Elevate your vegetable side dishes with these delectable Honey-Glazed Pearl Onions. This simple yet elegant recipe features tender white pearl onions simmered in a rich buttery glaze, enhanced with the natural sweetness of sugar and the brightness of citrus juice and madeira wine. Finished with fresh herbs, these caramelized onions make for a delightful accompaniment to any meal, adding both flavor and a touch of sophistication. Perfect for dinner parties or everyday dining, this dish is sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your kitchen.
2
Servings
90
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
White Pearl Onions
12 (peeled)
Butter
2 (tablespoons)
Sugar
1 (teaspoon)
Salt
1/2 (teaspoon)
Citrus Juice
1/8 (cup (such as orange, lemon, or lime))
Madeira Wine
2 (tablespoons)
Fresh Herb
1 (teaspoon (such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley))
Instructions
1
In a skillet, place the peeled pearl onions and cover them halfway with water.
2
Add the butter, salt, and sugar to the skillet and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3
Cook the onions for about 15 minutes, or until they are tender and the water has mostly evaporated, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
4
Continue cooking until the onions are golden brown and nicely glazed, reducing the heat as necessary to ensure even cooking.
5
Once the onions are golden, add the citrus juice and madeira wine. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce and create a syrupy glaze.
6
Remove from heat and stir in the fresh herbs just before serving.
Nutrition Information
4.5g
Fat
11.5g
Carbs
1g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I easily peel the pearl onions for this recipe?
To peel pearl onions easily, blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to an ice bath. Snip off the root end and the skins should slide right off.
Can I use frozen pearl onions instead of fresh ones?
Yes, frozen pearl onions work well. Since they are usually pre-peeled and blanched, you may need to reduce the initial simmering time with water.
What type of citrus juice is best for this glaze?
The recipe is versatile; you can use orange juice for sweetness, or lemon or lime juice for a more tart, bright finish.
What is a good substitute for Madeira wine?
If you don't have Madeira, you can substitute it with Marsala, a dark Sherry, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar mixed with a little beef or vegetable broth.
Which fresh herbs pair best with these glazed onions?
Thyme, rosemary, and parsley are excellent choices. Thyme provides an earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the glaze perfectly.
How long does it take to cook the onions until they are tender?
It typically takes about 15 minutes of simmering in the water and butter mixture for the onions to become tender.
Can I use red pearl onions instead of white ones?
Absolutely. Red pearl onions will work the same way and can provide a beautiful pop of color to the dish.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply replace the butter with a plant-based butter substitute or a neutral-flavored oil like avocado oil.
The recipe title mentions honey, but the ingredients list sugar. Can I use honey?
Yes, you can substitute the teaspoon of sugar with a teaspoon of honey to achieve the signature honey-glazed flavor profile mentioned in the title.
How do I ensure the onions get a golden brown glaze without burning?
Stir the onions occasionally as the water evaporates and reduce the heat once the glaze begins to thicken and caramelize to prevent the sugar from burning.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the primary ingredients listed—onions, butter, sugar, citrus, and wine—are naturally gluten-free. Always check labels on prepared items like wine.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled or tripled. Ensure you use a large enough skillet so the onions are mostly in a single layer for even glazing.
What main dishes pair well with Honey-Glazed Pearl Onions?
These onions pair beautifully with roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or beef tenderloin, making them a perfect side for holiday dinners.
Can I make these onions ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook them up to a day in advance. Reheat them gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or juice to loosen the glaze before serving.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
As written, this recipe makes 2 servings, with approximately 6 pearl onions per person.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 90 calories per serving in this Honey-Glazed Pearl Onions recipe.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
Yes, but use only about 1/3 of the amount (1/3 teaspoon) since dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh ones.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
What does the Madeira wine contribute to the dish?
Madeira adds a complex, nutty, and slightly caramelized flavor that deepens the sweetness of the onions and citrus.
Is it necessary to use water at the beginning?
Yes, the water allows the onions to steam and become tender before the sugar and butter begin to caramelize into a glaze.
Can I omit the alcohol in this recipe?
Yes, you can omit the Madeira wine and replace it with a bit more citrus juice or a splash of chicken or vegetable stock.
What is the fat content of this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 4.5g of fat, which comes primarily from the butter used for the glaze.
Can I add garlic to this recipe?
Yes, adding a clove of minced garlic during the last 5 minutes of cooking can add a savory depth to the sweet glaze.
What should I do if the liquid reduces too quickly?
If the water or glaze evaporates too fast before the onions are tender, simply add a tablespoon of water at a time and lower the heat.
Are these onions more sweet or savory?
They are a balance of both; the sugar and citrus provide sweetness, while the butter, salt, and Madeira wine add savory, rich notes.
Can I use regular onions if I don't have pearl onions?
You can use regular onions cut into wedges, but the cooking time and visual presentation will differ. Pearl onions are preferred for their size and sweetness.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
Each serving of these glazed onions contains approximately 11.5g of carbohydrates.
Is this dish suitable for a Thanksgiving or Christmas menu?
Yes, glazed pearl onions are a classic holiday side dish that adds sophistication and a unique flavor profile to festive meals.
Should the citrus juice be fresh or bottled?
Freshly squeezed citrus juice is recommended for the best flavor, as it provides a brighter acidity than bottled versions.
How do I reheat the onions without them becoming mushy?
Reheat them in a skillet over medium-low heat with a tiny bit of butter or water, stirring gently until they are warmed through and the glaze is fluid.