Sweet Onion Purée

Sweet Onion Purée

FAQ

Chef’s Tips

• Take your time with the onions, colour = flavour here. Don’t rush the caramelization.
• Season lightly early, then adjust at the end for balance.
• If it starts sticking, lower the heat and add a splash of broth.
• A tiny splash of vinegar at the end wakes everything up (balsamic or sherry works best).
• Blend while warm for the smoothest, silkiest texture.

Sweet Onion Purée

Wife with the Knife

This sweet onion purée is slow comfort in a spoon. Sweet onions are cooked down until golden and jammy, then blended into a silky, rich purée with a savoury backbone. It’s simple, but it hits that deep, restaurant-style flavour that makes everything it touches taste better, from roasted meats to sandwiches and veggies.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Condiments, Dip, Sauces, Snack, Spread, Topping

Cuisine European, French

Servings 1 cup

Equipment

• Blender or Food processor

Ingredients

  

• 2 large sweet onions (peeled and chopped)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1-2 tbsp brown sugar (optional, to taste)
• ¼ cup chicken or vegetable broth (plus a little more as needed)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Optional: 1 tsp balsamic or sherry vinegar (for finishing)

  (for finishing)

Instructions

 

• Heat butter and olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Add onions and a small pinch of salt. Cook slowly for 10–12 minutes until soft and translucent.
• Lower heat slightly and continue cooking until onions turn deep golden and jammy, stirring often (15–20 minutes).
• Add brown sugar (if using) and cook for another 2–3 minutes to deepen flavour.
• Pour in broth, scraping up any bits from the pan. Simmer gently for 10–15 minutes until very soft.
• Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
• Blend until completely smooth, adding a splash of extra broth if needed to loosen.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Finish with a small splash of vinegar if desired for balance.
• Serve warm as a sauce, spread, or topping.

Notes

• Perfect as a base for gravies, soups, or pan sauces.
• Spoon over mashed potatoes, roasted meats, or grilled vegetables.
• Mix with mayo or sour cream for a quick dip or sandwich spread.
• A little goes a long way, it’s concentrated and rich.

Storage

• Fridge: Cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in small portions or ice cube trays for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

 

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Keyword Gourmet Onion Spread, Onion Purée, Onion Spread, Roasted Pepper Dip, Sweet and Savoury Spread, Sweet Onion Condiment, Sweet Onion Purée, sweet onions, Vadalia, Vegan Spread