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Chilli and caramelised onion relish in a bowl, garnished with fresh chilli.
Sweet and piquant relish with caramelised onions and chilli

Chilli and caramelised onion relish

Author: Flavelo
Recipes Sauces and Gravies
The secret to caramelised onions is time. It cannot be rushed: the natural sugars in the onions must transform slowly to achieve that deep brown, sweet and savoury (umami) flavour profile that makes this relish irresistible. The reward for your patience is a rich, jam-like consistency, made exciting by the acidity of balsamic vinegar and the fiery kick of chilli. Perfect in burgers or served alongside roast meats.
🕒 Prep Time 10 mins
🍳 Cook Time 25 mins
⌛ Total Time 35 mins
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 120 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Modern

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Wide frying pan (for faster evaporation)
  • Wooden spoon

Allergen Information

⚠️ Milk
⚠️ Sulphur dioxide (in vinegar)

Instructions

1 ✓

Peel the onions, cut them in half, then slice thinly.

Tip: The thinner they are, the faster they will caramelise.
2 ✓

Melt the butter in the frying pan over a medium heat, then add the onions and salt.

Tip: Salt helps draw moisture out of the onions (osmosis), so they start browning sooner.
3 ✓

Sauté the onions, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown and soft.

Tip: If they start to catch, pour in a tiny splash of water and scrape up the browned bits.
4 ✓

Sprinkle with the brown sugar and chilli, then fry for a further 2-3 minutes.

Tip: The sugar aids browning and helps achieve a 'sticky' consistency.
5 ✓

Pour in the balsamic vinegar and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sharp vinegar smell evaporates and you have a thick, glossy relish.

Tip: The acidity of the vinegar counteracts the sweetness of the onions and sugar (flavour balance).

Recipe FAQ

Can I use red onions?
Yes, in fact, it is recommended! Red onions are sweeter and give a beautiful dark colour to the result.
The onions burnt, can they be saved?
Unfortunately, if they are blackened and bitter, no. Start again and use a lower heat.

Ingredients

  • 3 large Onions
  • 30 g Butter
  • 2 tbsp Brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp Balsamic vinegar
  • 1 pinch Chilli flakes (to taste)
  • 1 pinch Salt