Caramelized-Onion Dip
Caramelized-Onion Dip Recipe from India with Carrots and Butter
Introduction
Caramelized-Onion Dip is a delicious and savory dip that is perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a tasty snack. The combination of sweet onions, garam masala, and sour cream creates a rich and flavorful dip that is sure to be a hit with your guests.
History
Caramelized-Onion Dip has its roots in traditional onion dips, but with a twist. The caramelization of the onions adds a depth of flavor and sweetness that takes this dip to the next level. This recipe has been adapted and perfected over the years to create the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp of vegetable oil
- 3 cups of chopped sweet onions (such as Vidalia or Maui; about 2 medium)
- 1.5 tsp of garam masala
- 1 8 oz (227 g) container of crème fraîche or sour cream (1 cup)
How to prepare
- Heat oil in a heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook until the onions are deep brown and begin to crisp slightly, stirring often, about 40 minutes.
- Add garam masala and stir for 1 minute. Transfer to a small bowl and let it cool completely.
- Mix in crème fraîche and season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- DO AHEAD: This can be made 2 days ahead. Keep refrigerated.
- Source: Bon Appetit.
Variations
- For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also add in chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for added freshness.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
When caramelizing the onions, be sure to cook them low and slow to bring out their natural sweetness. Stirring often will help prevent burning and ensure even cooking. Adding garam masala at the end adds a warm and aromatic spice to the dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Caramelized-Onion Dip with a variety of dippable items such as chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables. It also pairs well with grilled meats or as a spread on sandwiches.
Cooking Techniques
The key to this recipe is the slow caramelization of the onions. Be patient and allow the onions to cook until they are deep brown and slightly crispy for the best flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have garam masala on hand, you can substitute with a combination of ground cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. You can also use regular cream cheese instead of sour cream for a thicker dip.
Make Ahead Tips
This dip can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to meld and develop over time.
Presentation Ideas
Serve this dip in a small bowl garnished with a sprinkle of garam masala or chopped fresh herbs. You can also drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil for a touch of richness.
Pairing Recommendations
This dip pairs well with a variety of beverages such as beer, wine, or cocktails. It also goes well with other appetizers such as cheese platters or charcuterie boards.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 150 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 8g per serving
Fats
Fats: 12g per serving
Proteins
Proteins: 2g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This dip is a good source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A, thanks to the onions.
Alergens
This recipe contains dairy (sour cream) and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.
Summary
This dip is a creamy and flavorful treat that is relatively low in calories and high in flavor. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Summary
Caramelized-Onion Dip is a delicious and flavorful dip that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich and savory flavors, it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this dip with your favorite dippable items for a tasty treat.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a warm summer day, and I was browsing through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my mother. As I flipped through the pages, a recipe for caramelized-onion dip caught my eye. The combination of sweet caramelized onions and creamy dip was simply irresistible.
I decided to give the recipe a try, and as I gathered the ingredients and began to cook the onions, the kitchen filled with a tantalizing aroma. The onions slowly caramelized, turning a deep golden brown and releasing their sweet, savory flavor. I mixed them with sour cream, mayonnaise, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce, creating a rich and creamy dip that was the perfect balance of sweet and savory.
As I dipped a chip into the creamy mixture and took a bite, I knew I had discovered a new favorite recipe. The flavors melded together perfectly, with the caramelized onions adding a depth of flavor that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire, and I couldn't wait to share it with my friends and family.
Over the years, I have made this caramelized-onion dip countless times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my tastes. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a burst of freshness, or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat. No matter how I choose to customize it, the dip always turns out delicious, with the sweet caramelized onions taking center stage.
I have shared this recipe with friends and family, and it has become a favorite at gatherings and parties. The creamy dip is always a hit, with people clamoring for the recipe and asking for seconds. I love seeing the smiles on their faces as they taste the dip for the first time, and I take pride in knowing that I have passed on a recipe that brings joy to others.
One of my fondest memories involving this caramelized-onion dip was when my granddaughter, Emily, asked me to teach her how to make it. She had always been intrigued by my cooking and loved to help me in the kitchen, so I was more than happy to share the recipe with her.
We spent an afternoon in the kitchen, chopping onions and stirring the creamy dip together. Emily watched intently as the onions caramelized, her eyes widening with wonder at the transformation. She carefully mixed in the sour cream and mayonnaise, tasting the dip as she went and adjusting the seasonings to her liking.
As we sat down to enjoy the dip together, I watched with pride as Emily dipped a chip into the creamy mixture and took a bite. Her face lit up with delight, and she declared that it was the best dip she had ever tasted. I knew then that I had passed on a love of cooking and a cherished family recipe to the next generation.
As I think back on the many years I have spent making this caramelized-onion dip, I am grateful for the memories it has brought me and the connections it has forged with my loved ones. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and sharing this recipe with others has allowed me to spread that passion and create lasting bonds with those I hold dear.
I may have learned this recipe from a cookbook, but it has become so much more than just a list of ingredients and instructions. It is a reflection of my love for cooking and my desire to bring joy to others through food. And as long as I am able, I will continue to make this caramelized-onion dip, sharing it with those I hold dear and creating cherished memories along the way.