Balsamic Cipolline Onions Recipe

Elevate your next meal with these irresistible Balsamic Cipolline Onions! This elegant side dish, featured in Bon Appetit (November 1999), boasts sweet and tangy caramelized onions that pair perfectly with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even creamy polenta. The simple yet sophisticated recipe creates a burst of flavor in under an hour.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 60 mins
Calories 109.1 kcal
Protein 5g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Balsamic Cipolline Onions

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Balsamic Cipolline Onions

  • 1 pound cipolline onions
  • 1 cup beef stock
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • Fresh Parsley

How to Make Balsamic Cipolline Onions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cipolline onions and boil for 3 minutes.
  2. Drain the onions and immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let cool completely.
  3. Trim the root ends of the onions and gently peel off the outer layers.
  4. In a heavy-bottomed skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar and stir until it begins to melt.
  5. Add the peeled cipolline onions, 1 cup of beef stock, and 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar to the skillet.
  6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 15 minutes, or until the onions are tender but still hold their shape.
  7. Stir in 1/2 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar.
  8. Remove the lid and continue to simmer for 25 minutes, or until the onions are caramelized and the sauce has reduced to a syrupy consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
  9. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  10. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped.
  11. Transfer the balsamic cipolline onions to a serving bowl and garnish with an additional tablespoon of fresh parsley.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

14 g

Sugar

32g

Fat

12g

Carbs

5g