Barbequed Onions and Wasabi

Barbequed Onions and Wasabi Recipe from New Zealand

Region / culture: New Zealand | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Barbequed Onions and Wasabi is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the sweet, caramelized depth of barbequed onions with the sharp, pungent kick of wasabi. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add an exciting twist to their culinary repertoire. Whether served as a side dish or a topping for burgers and steaks, this combination promises to elevate any meal with its distinctive flavors.

History

The history of combining onions with wasabi is not well-documented, but it is a fusion of traditional Japanese and Western cooking techniques. Onions have been a staple in cuisines worldwide, appreciated for their versatility and flavor. Wasabi, on the other hand, is a traditional Japanese condiment known for its strong, spicy flavor, often paired with sushi. The fusion of these two ingredients into a barbequed dish is a modern culinary innovation that caters to the adventurous palate.

Ingredients

onions - thinly sliced
Namida® wasabi paste

How to prepare

1) Slice or dice the desired amount of onions for the meal.
2) Heat oil in a skillet, fry pan, or on the barbecue, or heat the pan (preferred method).
3) Add the onions to the pan and mix in a teaspoon of Namida® Wasabi paste per cup of onions.
4) Stir the paste into the onions while cooking until the paste dissolves and the onions reach desired doneness.
5) Serve with your preferred accompaniments.

Variations

For a sweeter version, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup during cooking. For a smokier flavor, consider adding a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, use fresh onions and high-quality Namida® Wasabi paste. The key to perfectly barbequed onions is to cook them slowly, allowing them to caramelize without burning. Adding the wasabi paste early in the cooking process allows its flavor to mellow out and infuse the onions, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served as a side with grilled meats, fish, or as a topping for burgers and sandwiches. It also pairs well with sushi and sashimi for a unique twist.

Cooking Techniques

Barbequing or pan-frying are the recommended methods for cooking the onions. Both techniques allow for the development of rich flavors through caramelization.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Namida® Wasabi paste is unavailable, a good quality horseradish paste can be used as a substitute. For a milder flavor, green chili paste can be an alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

The onions can be sliced and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to a day ahead. The dish itself is best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated if necessary.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the barbequed onions and wasabi in a bowl garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an added touch of color and texture.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with cold, crisp beers or a dry white wine that can complement its spicy and sweet flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to avoid burning the onions.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Barbequed Onions and Wasabi is relatively low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those monitoring their calorie intake.

Carbohydrates

Onions are a good source of carbohydrates, primarily in the form of natural sugars and fibers. A serving of this dish provides a moderate amount of carbs, making it a suitable addition to a balanced diet.

Fats

This recipe is low in fats, with the only source being the oil used for frying. Using a healthier oil option like olive oil can enhance the nutritional profile of the dish.

Proteins

Onions and wasabi paste provide minimal protein content. However, this dish is often served alongside protein-rich foods, complementing their flavors and nutritional value.

Vitamins and minerals

Onions are rich in vitamins C and B6, folate, and potassium. Wasabi, although used in small quantities, contributes with its own set of nutrients, including vitamin C, calcium, and magnesium.

Alergens

Namida® Wasabi paste may contain allergens for some individuals, particularly those with sensitivities to mustard or horseradish. Always check the label for specific allergen information.

Summary

Overall, Barbequed Onions and Wasabi is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, with low fat and calorie content. It is a flavorful addition to a healthy diet.

Summary

Barbequed Onions and Wasabi is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the spicy kick of wasabi. It is nutritionally balanced, low in calories, and can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether served as a side or a topping, it is sure to add an exciting flavor dimension to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for barbequed onions and wasabi. It was a warm summer day, and I was at a local farmer's market browsing through the stalls filled with fresh produce. As I passed by one particular stand, the smell of sizzling onions and spice caught my attention.

Curious, I made my way over to the stand where a friendly elderly man was grilling up a batch of onions on a small portable grill. The aroma was intoxicating, and I couldn't resist asking him what he was cooking. He smiled warmly and explained that he was making barbequed onions with a twist - a hint of wasabi for an added kick.

Intrigued by the unusual combination, I asked him for the recipe. He chuckled and said it was a family secret that had been passed down for generations. However, he kindly offered to show me how to make it right then and there.

I watched as he sliced the onions into thick rings and tossed them in a bowl with a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and a dollop of wasabi paste. The pungent aroma of the wasabi filled the air, making my eyes water slightly. He then carefully placed the onions on the grill, letting them cook until they were caramelized and tender.

As he plated up a serving for me to try, I couldn't wait to taste the unique combination of flavors. The first bite was a revelation - the sweetness of the onions paired perfectly with the spicy kick of the wasabi. It was a taste sensation unlike anything I had ever experienced before.

I thanked the kind man profusely for sharing his family recipe with me and made a mental note to recreate it at home. Over the years, I have made the barbequed onions and wasabi countless times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my own tastes.

One of the best things about cooking is the way recipes can be adapted and personalized to create something truly unique. I have always loved experimenting in the kitchen, trying out new flavor combinations and techniques.

As I think back on that fateful day at the farmer's market, I am grateful for the chance encounter that led me to discover this delicious recipe. It has become a firm favorite in my repertoire, a dish that never fails to impress guests and family alike.

I often think about the elderly man who shared his family recipe with me, wondering if he knew just how much joy and satisfaction it would bring me over the years. Perhaps he did, for cooking is a universal language that transcends generations and cultures.

And so, as I prepare a batch of barbequed onions and wasabi for dinner tonight, I do so with a sense of gratitude and nostalgia. The simple act of cooking has the power to connect us to our past, to bring back memories and create new ones.

As the onions sizzle on the grill and the spicy aroma fills the air, I am reminded of that warm summer day at the farmer's market, of the kind man who shared his family recipe with me. And I smile, knowing that the tradition lives on in my kitchen, passed down from one generation to the next.