Caramelized Pearl Onions
These caramelized pearl onions with bacon and brown sugar make a great side dish or party appetizer. A splash of bourbon adds a smoky flavor that takes them to the next level. Plus, you can make them in advance and warm them up before serving.If you are using fresh pearl onions, check the notes for an easy tip for pealing these little orbs.
Servings: 4 to 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 to 10 slices of bacon cut into 1 inch sections
- 16 ounces pearl onions peeled (fresh or frozen)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ⅓ cup water
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons bourbon or brandy optional
Instructions
- Slice the bacon into 1 inch sections and cook it in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Transfer the bacon pieces to a plate. Pour the bacon fat in a jar or bowl then measure 3 tablespoons of the fat and transfer to the hot skillet.
- Add the pearl onions to the bacon fat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and cook over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently until lightly browned.
- Add the water, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a boil then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook 5 to 8 minutes or until tender.
- Remove the cover and add the bourbon (if using). Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the liquid reduces and thickens.
Notes
To Peel Pearl Onions
- Cut off the tip of the onions (opposite the root end)
- Drop the onions in boiling water for 60 to 90 seconds, then drain them and let them cool.
- Squeeze the root end of the onions and the skin will slide off.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 | Calories: 169kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 19mg | Sodium: 504mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 9g
