Sautéed Pearl Onions with Dried Cherries and Citrus Glaze
Indulge in the delightful combination of sweet and savory with this Sautéed Pearl Onions with Dried Cherries and Citrus Glaze recipe. This dish features tender white pearl onions caramelized to perfection, harmoniously paired with the luscious sweetness of dried cherries. Enhanced by the zesty brightness of fresh lemon and orange juices, this recipe is perfect as a side dish for roasts or served over grains for a unique vegetarian option. Elevate your dining experience by sharing this exquisite dish at your next gathering!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter or olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons (melted)
white pearl onions
2 cups (peeled)
sugar
1/2 cup
grated fresh ginger
1/2 teaspoon
lemon juice
1 tablespoon
fresh orange juice
1/2 cup
orange zest
from 1 orange
dried cherries
1/2 cup
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2
Add the peeled pearl onions and sauté until they are golden brown and slightly caramelized, about 10 minutes.
3
Sprinkle in the sugar and add grated ginger, lemon juice, orange juice, and orange zest to the skillet, stirring to combine.
4
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for approximately 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken into a syrupy consistency.
5
Stir in the dried cherries and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the cherries are warmed through and coated in the citrus syrup.
6
Remove from heat and serve warm, garnished with additional citrus zest if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main flavor profile of this pearl onion dish?
The dish features a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, highlighting caramelized onions and a tangy citrus glaze.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by choosing olive oil instead of butter for sautéing the onions.
How long does it take to sauté the pearl onions?
The pearl onions should be sautéed for about 10 minutes until they are golden brown and slightly caramelized.
What type of onions are recommended for this recipe?
This recipe specifically calls for white pearl onions, though red pearl onions could also be used for a different color profile.
What kind of citrus juices are used in the glaze?
The glaze is made using a combination of fresh lemon juice and fresh orange juice.
How do I achieve a syrupy consistency for the sauce?
After adding the sugar and juices, let the mixture simmer on low heat for approximately 15 minutes to allow it to thicken.
Can I substitute dried cherries with something else?
Yes, dried cranberries or raisins would make excellent substitutes for dried cherries in this recipe.
Is there fresh ginger in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger to add a subtle warmth to the flavor.
What is the best way to serve these sautéed pearl onions?
They are perfect as a side dish for roasts or can be served over grains for a unique vegetarian main option.
How much sugar is required for the glaze?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of sugar to create the sweet citrus glaze.
Should I use fresh or bottled orange juice?
The recipe recommends fresh orange juice and includes the zest from one orange for the best flavor.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients: butter/oil, pearl onions, sugar, ginger, lemon juice, orange juice, orange zest, and dried cherries.
Do I add the dried cherries at the beginning?
No, the dried cherries should be stirred in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to ensure they are warmed through without overcooking.
Is this recipe suitable for holiday meals?
Yes, its sophisticated flavor profile and vibrant colors make it an excellent choice for holiday gatherings.
What temperature should I use for simmering the glaze?
You should reduce the heat to low for the 15-minute simmering process.
Can I use frozen pearl onions?
Yes, you can use frozen pearl onions; just ensure they are thawed and patted dry before sautéing to get a good caramelization.
Does this recipe contain any protein?
The recipe is primarily a side dish and does not contain significant protein sources, though serving it over grains can add protein.
How do I garnish this dish?
You can garnish the finished dish with additional fresh citrus zest for extra brightness.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check your butter or oil labels to be certain.
Can I use dried ginger instead of fresh?
While fresh is preferred for the best flavor, you can use a pinch of ground ginger as a substitute.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
The recipe uses 2 cups of pearl onions, which typically serves 4 people as a side dish.
What equipment is needed for this recipe?
You will primarily need a large skillet and a grater for the ginger and orange zest.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made ahead and gently reheated, though the glaze is best when fresh.
How do I peel pearl onions easily?
To peel pearl onions quickly, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then cold water, and the skins should slip right off.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe involving simple sautéing and simmering techniques.
Can I substitute the sugar with honey?
Yes, honey or maple syrup could be used as a natural sweetener substitute for the sugar.
What should I do if the sauce gets too thick?
If the glaze becomes too thick, you can add a splash of orange juice or water to thin it to your desired consistency.
Is the orange zest essential?
The orange zest provides an intense citrus aroma and flavor that significantly enhances the dish.
Can I add nuts to this dish?
Toasted walnuts or pecans would add a nice crunch and pair well with the cherries and onions.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.