Appetizer > International Spreads

Caramelized Onion and Tomato Jam Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Special equipment needed:
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Glass jars with lids for storage

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and season with salt and black pepper.

2. Cook the onions, stirring occasionally, until they are caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.

3. Add the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the mixture is thick and syrupy.

4. Add the diced tomatoes and red pepper flakes to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for 10-15 minutes, until the tomatoes have broken down and the mixture has thickened.

5. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the jam cool for a few minutes.

6. Transfer the jam to glass jars and let it cool completely before storing in the refrigerator.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
Makes about 2 cups of jam

Nutritional information:
Per serving (2 tablespoons):
Calories: 40
Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 150mg
Sugar: 6g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Red wine vinegar can be used instead of balsamic vinegar.
- White sugar can be used instead of brown sugar.
- Diced canned tomatoes can be used instead of fresh tomatoes.

Variations:
- Add chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the jam for extra flavor.
- Use the jam as a topping for grilled meats or vegetables.
- Spread the jam on toast or crackers for a quick and easy snack.

Tips and tricks:
- Be patient when caramelizing the onions, as this step is crucial for developing the flavor of the jam.
- Use a wooden spoon to stir the jam, as it won't scratch the skillet.
- Store the jam in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Storage instructions:
Store the jam in glass jars with lids in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat the jam in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the jam in a small bowl with a spoon for spreading.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, over the jam for a pop of color.

Pairings:
- Serve the jam with cheese and crackers for a delicious appetizer.
- Use the jam as a condiment for sandwiches or burgers.
- Pair the jam with grilled chicken or pork for a flavorful main dish.

Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Garlic bread

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the jam is too thick, add a splash of water or vinegar to thin it out.
- If the jam is too thin, continue cooking it until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use clean glass jars and lids for storing the jam.
- Refrigerate the jam immediately after making it.

Food history:
Caramelized onion and tomato jam is a modern twist on traditional onion jam, which has been a popular condiment in Europe for centuries.

Flavor profiles:
This jam is sweet, tangy, and savory, with a rich caramelized onion flavor and a hint of spice from the red pepper flakes.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the jam as a condiment for grilled meats or vegetables, or spread it on toast or crackers for a quick and easy snack.

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Taste: Sweet, Tangy, Savory, Caramelized, Oniony