Imagine a condiment so magical it can transform ordinary dishes into gourmet masterpieces with just one spoonful. Our Slow Cooker Maple Onion Jam is not just a recipe—it's a culinary revelation that will make your taste buds dance and your kitchen smell absolutely incredible. With a perfect balance of sweet maple syrup and tangy balsamic vinegar, this jam is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen, elevating everything from sandwiches to cheese boards with its rich, caramelized goodness.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the onions by peeling and thinly slicing them using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer. Aim for uniform, thin slices to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
- Place the thinly sliced onions into the slow cooker, spreading them evenly across the bottom of the cooking vessel.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the maple-vinegar mixture over the sliced onions in the slow cooker, gently stirring to ensure all onions are coated with the liquid.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 7-8 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even caramelization.
- After cooking time is complete, remove the lid and continue cooking uncovered for an additional 30-45 minutes to help the jam thicken and reduce.
- Once the onions have reached a deep golden-brown color and the liquid has reduced to a syrupy consistency, remove from heat.
- Allow the maple onion jam to cool completely before transferring to clean, sterilized glass jars for storage.
- Refrigerate the jam and consume within 1-2 weeks. The jam can be served cold or gently reheated as a condiment or spread.
Tips
- Slice Matters: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to ensure uniform, thin onion slices. This guarantees even caramelization and a smooth texture.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Resist the temptation to rush the cooking process. The magic of this jam happens during those long, slow hours of cooking.
- Stirring Strategy: Occasionally stir the onions to prevent sticking and promote even caramelization. This helps develop deep, rich flavors.
- Thickness Check: The final stage of uncovered cooking is crucial for achieving the perfect jam-like consistency. Watch carefully and stop when it reaches a syrupy texture.
- Storage Secrets: Use sterilized glass jars for storage and refrigerate. The jam will keep for 1-2 weeks, but we doubt it'll last that long once people taste it!
- Serving Suggestions: Serve cold as a spread or gently reheat to unlock its full flavor potential. It's amazing on grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a gourmet cheese accompaniment.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 80kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
