Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Caramelized Onion and Garlic Marmalade?
It is a rich, sweet, and savory condiment made from onions and garlic that is ideal for elevating meat dishes, pizzas, and sandwiches.
How many onions do I need for this recipe?
You will need 10 cups of thinly sliced onions, which typically equals about 3 to 4 very large onions.
What type of onion is best for this marmalade?
Sweet onions like Vidalia produce a milder flavor, while brown onions provide a deeper and more intense taste.
How long does it take to cook the onions?
The onions need to cook for at least 30 minutes covered, followed by another 10 to 45 minutes uncovered to reach the desired consistency.
Why do I need to cover the skillet during the first phase of cooking?
Covering the skillet allows the onions to sweat and cook down properly before the final caramelization phase.
Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?
While you can use white sugar, brown sugar is recommended as its molasses content creates a richer sweet base for the onions.
What is the purpose of red wine vinegar in this recipe?
The red wine vinegar acts as a tangy balance to the sweetness and helps lift the flavors of the caramelized onions.
How many calories are in a serving of this marmalade?
Each of the 6 servings contains approximately 90 calories.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
As written, it contains butter. However, you can make it vegan by substituting the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter.
What should the final consistency of the mixture be?
The mixture should be reduced until it reaches a thick, marmalade-like consistency.
What can I serve this onion marmalade with?
It pairs beautifully with roasted pork, grilled beef, artisan pizzas, burgers, or as part of a charcuterie board with cheeses.
Can I serve this marmalade cold?
Yes, the marmalade can be served at room temperature or chilled from the refrigerator.
Does this recipe contain any fat?
Yes, there is approximately 1.5g of fat per serving, primarily from the butter used for cooking.
Is this marmalade gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed (butter, sugar, onions, garlic, vinegar, salt, pepper), this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I use pre-minced garlic?
Yes, you can use 4 cloves worth of pre-minced garlic for convenience.
How do I prevent the onions from sticking to the pan?
Stir the mixture occasionally, especially during the uncovered cooking phase, to ensure even caramelization and prevent sticking.
Can I add more garlic if I prefer a stronger flavor?
Absolutely, you can adjust the amount of garlic to suit your personal taste preferences.
What if I want a deeper caramelization?
You can cook the onions longer than the suggested 30 minutes before adding the vinegar to achieve a darker, sweeter flavor.
Is there a lot of protein in this dish?
No, this is a condiment and contains a low amount of protein, approximately 0.8g per serving.
Can I use balsamic vinegar instead of red wine vinegar?
Yes, balsamic vinegar is a great substitute that will add a slightly different sweet and tangy profile to the marmalade.
How much salt is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 3/4 teaspoon of salt, though you can adjust this to taste at the end.
Can this be made in advance for a party?
Yes, it is an excellent make-ahead condiment as it stores well in the refrigerator.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it is savory and sweet. If you want spice, you would need to add red pepper flakes separately.
What happens if I cook it for the full 45 minutes uncovered?
Cooking it longer will result in a thicker, more concentrated flavor and a darker color.
Should the onions be sliced thick or thin?
The onions should be thinly sliced to ensure they break down and caramelize evenly into a jam-like texture.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 6 servings.
Is this a good topping for burgers?
Yes, it adds a gourmet twist to burgers and sandwiches.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but you may want to taste the marmalade before adding the full 3/4 teaspoon of extra salt.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
While onions contain fiber, the specific amount per serving for this processed marmalade is not listed in the data.
What is the first step in making this recipe?
The first step is to melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat and dissolve the brown sugar into it.