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Sweet Onion Purée

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
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
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