Inspired by: @makeadifference
Are you tired of expensive, tiny jars of gourmet onion marmalade at the store? Imagine crafting a rich, sweet, and savory onion marmalade right in your own kitchen for a fraction of the cost! This easy homemade vegan onion marmalade recipe delivers that exquisite, slow-cooked flavor that rivals even the most luxurious store-bought varieties. It’s perfect for elevating your vegan cheese boards, slathering on sandwiches, pairing with plant-based burgers, or even glazing roasted vegetables.
This recipe solves the common problem of costly gourmet condiments, offering a delicious and incredibly budget-friendly alternative. As original recipe author makeadifference discovered, making a batch four times the size for just R200 (compared to R1400 for store-bought equivalents) means significant savings! Plus, it's naturally vegan, dairy-free, egg-free, and gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for a wide range of dietary preferences.
One abillion user, @mrsgarg, even noted, "I also make it with Tropea red onions but, I had never thought of adding mustard seeds. I will definitely try it." This highlights the versatility and delicious potential of this recipe! The unique addition of mustard seeds by makeadifference adds a subtle, surprising depth that you won't find in typical marmalades.
What is Onion Marmalade?
Onion marmalade is a slow-cooked, deeply caramelized onion condiment that transforms humble onions into a luxurious spread. It’s known for its complex sweet and savory profile, often with a tangy kick from vinegar and a hint of spice. This version embraces that classic taste while being entirely plant-based.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your own gourmet onion marmalade:
- 1 kg Onions (yellow or red for a twist!)
- 1/2 cup Balsamic Vinegar
- 1/2 cup Brown Vinegar
- 3 cups Brown Sugar
- 1/4 cup Agave Syrup (a perfect vegan alternative to honey)
- 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 Bay Leaf
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot with a lid
- Food processor (optional, for quick chopping)
- Sterilized glass jars with lids
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your own delicious onion marmalade:
- Prepare Onions: Peel and chop the onions. For a large batch like this, using a food processor can save a lot of time, as recommended by the original author.
- Combine Ingredients: In your large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine all the chopped onions, balsamic vinegar, brown vinegar, brown sugar, agave syrup, orange juice, bay leaf, salt, olive oil, and mustard seeds.
- Slow Cook: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 3 hours. This long, slow cooking process is key to developing the deep, rich flavors and caramelizing the onions perfectly.
- Thicken: After 3 hours, remove the lid. Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the marmalade to thicken and reduce to your desired consistency. It should be jam-like and glossy.
- Jarring: While the marmalade is still hot, carefully ladle it into hot, sterilized glass bottles or jars.
- Seal and Store: Ensure there is no trapped air in the bottles, as this is crucial for the preserve's lifespan. Seal the jars tightly. Once cooled, store your homemade onion marmalade in the refrigerator.
Variations & Adaptations
- Red Onion Marmalade: As suggested by an abillion user, substitute yellow onions with red onions for a slightly sweeter, milder flavor and a beautiful deep purple hue.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce during the simmering process for a delightful spicy edge.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs added during the last hour of cooking for an aromatic twist. Remove before jarring.
- Vinegar Swap: Try using red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar instead of brown vinegar for different flavor profiles.
- Serving Suggestions: This marmalade is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it with vegan cheese and crackers, spread it on toasted bread, add it to grilled plant-based sandwiches or burgers, use it as a glaze for roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts, or even stir it into gravies for extra depth.
Tips & Hacks for the Perfect Marmalade
- Chopping Onions: While a food processor makes quick work of chopping a large quantity of onions, be careful not to over-process them into a paste. A rough chop is ideal.
- Sterilization is Key: Properly sterilizing your jars (e.g., in boiling water or a low oven) and filling them hot ensures a longer shelf life for your preserve.
- Patience Pays Off: The 3.5-hour cooking time might seem long, but it's essential for achieving that deeply caramelized, rich flavor and perfect consistency. Don't rush it!
- Troubleshooting Consistency: If your marmalade isn't thickening enough in the last 30 minutes, increase the heat slightly and continue to simmer, stirring more frequently, until it reaches your desired thickness. If it's too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of hot water or orange juice while reheating.
This homemade onion marmalade is a true testament to the fact that gourmet flavors don't have to come with a hefty price tag. It's a delightful, long-lasting condiment that you'll be proud to serve!
Ready to impress your taste buds and save some cash? Give this Easy Homemade Vegan Onion Marmalade recipe a try today! Share your creations with the abillion community and let us know your favorite ways to enjoy this delicious spread.
Related Articles
Looking for more amazing vegan recipes and cooking tips? Explore these popular articles on abillion:
- Whip up another onion-inspired spread: Check out our Easy Vegan Zucchini Onion Spread for another versatile dip.
- Elevate your appetizers: Learn how to make Easy Homemade Vegan Cheesy Marmite Scrolls – perfect for a party!
- Discover more plant-based meal ideas: Try the comforting Easy One-Pot Vegan Moroccan Chickpea & Vegetable Tagine.
- Find delicious sides for your marmalade: Explore the recipe for Easy Crispy Vegan Lentils and Rice.
- Perfect for holiday gifting or entertaining: Browse our 11 Easy Christmas Desserts Anyone Can Make! for more festive ideas.
Image Gallery
Ingredients for this delicious homemade onion marmalade recipe, ready to transform into a gourmet condiment.
