Imagine a condiment so luxurious and rich that it can instantly elevate any dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Our Port Red Onion Jam is not just a recipe; it's a culinary adventure that combines the deep, sophisticated notes of port wine with the sweet and tangy essence of caramelized red onions. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress or a food enthusiast seeking to expand your flavor horizons, this jam is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 jar
Ingredients
- 2 large red onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup port wine
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 large red onions, 1 cup of port wine, 1 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, and salt to taste. Ensure your workspace is clean and organized.
- Peel the red onions and slice them thinly. Aim for uniform slices to ensure even cooking. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline for this task.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, add the thinly sliced red onions. Pour in the cup of port wine, ensuring the onions are well coated.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the onions from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Once the mixture starts to simmer, add the cup of sugar to the saucepan. Stir well to combine the sugar with the onions and port wine, allowing the sugar to dissolve completely.
- Add the tablespoon of balsamic vinegar to the mixture. This will enhance the flavor of the jam and add a subtle tanginess.
- Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently. Allow it to simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the onions have softened and the mixture has thickened to a jam-like consistency.
- As the jam cooks, taste it occasionally and add salt to taste. The amount of salt will depend on your personal preference, but start with a small pinch and adjust as needed.
- Once the jam has reached your desired consistency, remove the saucepan from heat. Let it cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a clean, sterilized jar.
- Seal the jar with a lid and allow the Port Red Onion Jam to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, store it in the refrigerator. It can be enjoyed for up to two weeks.
- Serve your Port Red Onion Jam as a delicious topping for meats, cheeses, or as a flavorful addition to sandwiches and charcuterie boards.
Tips
- Choose high-quality port wine for the best flavor profile - a ruby or tawny port works wonderfully.
- Use a sharp knife or mandoline to ensure uniform, thin onion slices for even caramelization.
- Stir frequently to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, glossy jam consistency.
- Don't rush the cooking process; low and slow is the key to developing deep, complex flavors.
- For extra depth, consider adding a pinch of fresh thyme or a splash of balsamic glaze during cooking.
- Sterilize your jar properly to ensure the jam stays fresh and safe for consumption.
- Let the jam cool completely before storing to allow it to set and develop its full flavor potential.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
