Balsamic Cipolline Onions

Elevate your next meal with the rich, sweet-savory sophistication of Balsamic Cipolline Onions. This simple yet elegant side dish features tender cipolline onions, caramelized to golden perfection, then braised in a glossy balsamic glaze infused with brown sugar, garlic, and fresh thyme. The balance of tangy vinegar and subtle sweetness transforms these humble pearl-like onions into a show-stopping accompaniment, perfect for pairing with roasted meats, creamy mashed potatoes, or crusty artisan bread. Ready in under an hour, this dish combines minimal effort with maximum flavor, making it a must-try for any culinary enthusiast.

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams cipolline onions
• 120 ml balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic cloves
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme sprigs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoons black pepper
• 120 ml water

Directions

Step 1

Peel the cipolline onions by blanching them first. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the onions, and boil for 1-2 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Trim the root ends and slip off the skins.

Step 2

Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat until the butter melts and starts to bubble.

Step 3

Add the peeled cipolline onions to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized on most sides.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring until fragrant.

Step 5

Sprinkle the brown sugar over the onions and stir to coat them evenly.

Step 6

Pour in the balsamic vinegar and water, and then add the fresh thyme sprigs, salt, and black pepper.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid and let the onions braise for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 8

Remove the lid and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the balsamic sauce to reduce and thicken slightly.

Step 9

Discard the thyme sprigs and taste to adjust seasoning, if necessary.

Step 10

Serve warm as a side dish or spooned over roasted meat, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	833.6 grams (833.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	846

Total Fat 52.50g	67%
Saturated Fat 18.50g	93%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 62mg	21%
Sodium 2426mg	105%
Total Carbohydrate 88.20g	32%
Dietary Fiber 9.30g	33%
Total Sugars 56.90g
Protein 7.30g	15%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 224mg	17%
Iron 4mg	20%
Potassium 1088mg	23%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 55.3%

Protein: 3.4%

Carbs: 41.3%