Description
This Caramelized Onion Dip is a rich and flavorful appetizer perfect for gatherings or snacks. It features slowly caramelized onions cooked in butter, enhanced with balsamic vinegar and maple syrup for a deep, sweet flavor, combined with smooth fat-free cottage cheese for a creamy, healthy dip. Seasoned with spring onions and onion powder, this dip is both delicious and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Caramelized Onions
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 250g thinly sliced onions
- 1 cup (240ml) chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 tablespoon good quality balsamic vinegar
- ½ tablespoon maple syrup
For the Dip
- 350g fat free cottage cheese
- 2 spring onions, sliced (green part only)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat Butter: Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat and add the butter. Allow it to melt completely.
- Cook Onions: Add the thinly sliced onions to the pan. Cook until they start becoming translucent and soft, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
- Caramelize with Stock: Reduce heat to medium-low. Gradually add the chicken or vegetable stock in small amounts, letting it reduce before adding more. Continue this slow cooking process for about 25 minutes to deeply caramelize the onions without burning them.
- Add Flavorings: Once the onions are richly caramelized, add the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup. Stir well and then set the mixture aside to cool.
- Blend Cottage Cheese: Using a mini food processor, blend the fat-free cottage cheese until it is smooth and free of lumps, creating a creamy base for the dip.
- Combine Ingredients: Transfer the smooth cottage cheese to a mixing bowl. Add the cooled caramelized onions, sliced green onions, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Season to Taste: Taste the dip and add salt and black pepper as needed to enhance the flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Your caramelized onion dip is ready to serve. Pair it with fresh vegetables, crackers, or bread for a delightful appetizer.
Notes
- Using fat-free cottage cheese keeps the dip light without sacrificing creaminess.
- Slow caramelization of onions is key to developing deep, sweet flavors—avoid rushing this process.
- You can substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock to make the recipe vegetarian-friendly.
- Adjust the amount of balsamic vinegar and maple syrup to suit your preferred sweetness and tanginess.
- Best served chilled or at room temperature.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.