Homemade Adams Minced Onion Recipe: A Healthier, Customizable Delight

Category: Condiment

Introduction

Adams Minced Onion is a beloved condiment known for its tangy, savory flavor, adding depth to various dishes like meatloaf and soups. This recipe recreates that essence using fresh, customizable ingredients, allowing for a healthier and more personalized taste experience.

Why Make It at Home?

Making Adams Minced Onion at home offers several benefits. It allows for healthier alternatives, such as reducing sugar and sodium content. Customization is key, enabling you to adjust sweetness and spice levels. Additionally, it's cost-effective and ensures no artificial preservatives.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the first time I made this recipe; the aroma of caramelized onions filled my kitchen, reminiscent of home-cooked meals. It was rewarding to create something so flavorful from scratch, knowing exactly what went into it.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:20 minutes
• **Cook Time:30 minutes
• **Total Time:50 minutes
• **Yield:2 cups (16 oz)

Ingredients

For the Caramelized Onions:

• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 1 medium sweet onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Seasoning Blend:

• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar (or to taste)
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup neutral oil (like avocado oil)

Instructions

• Caramelize the Onions:

• Heat oil in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add onions and salt, stirring to coat.

  • Cook slowly for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are dark amber.

• Blend Onions:

• Let onions cool slightly, then transfer to a blender with a splash of water. Blend until smooth.

• Mix Seasoning Blend:

• In a bowl, combine cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.

• Combine Ingredients:

• In a saucepan, mix blended onions, seasoning blend, vinegar, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.

• Add Oil and Simmer:

• Stir in oil, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes, until thickened slightly.

• Taste and Adjust:

• Add more vinegar, sugar, or spices as needed.

• Cool and Store:

• Let cool, then transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate before use.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add hot sauce or diced jalapeños.
• Smoky Version: Increase smoked paprika.
• Low-Sodium: Use salt-free seasoning.

Pro Tips

• Slow Cook Onions: Don’t rush caramelization for rich flavor.
• Season Gradually: Taste and adjust as you go.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh onions and spices for best flavor.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Q: Can I use fresh onions instead of caramelized?
  • A: Fresh onions are too sharp; caramelizing is crucial.
• Q: How long does it keep?
  • A: Up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
• Q: Can I make it spicy?
  • A: Yes, add hot sauce or jalapeños.

Serving Suggestions

• Meatloaf or Burgers: Mix into ground meat for flavor.
• Dip: Serve with crackers or veggies.
• Marinade: Use as a base for BBQ meats.

Conclusion

This recipe offers a healthier, tastier alternative to store-bought, allowing customization and freshness. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a delicious condiment from scratch! Share your creations and enjoy the culinary delight.