Caramelised onion dip

Caramelised onion dip is a creamy appetizer featuring sweet caramelised red onions, tangy sour cream, and rich cream cheese. Perfect for gatherings, it's served chilled with chips, crackers, or vegetables.

11 Jan 2026
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
2 red onions
1 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp brown sugar
1 tbsp vinegar
1 cup cream cheese
1/2 cup sour cream

Caramelised onion dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer that's perfect for any gathering. The rich sweetness of caramelised red onions, combined with the tang of sour cream and cream cheese, makes for a deliciously indulgent dip. Whether you're serving it with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables, this dip is sure to be a hit.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Onions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the finely sliced red onions to the pan and stir to coat them with the oil.

2. Caramelise the Onions:
- Cook the onions slowly over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. This should take about 20-25 minutes. The onions should become very soft and take on a deep, brown color.
- Halfway through the caramelising process, add the ground cumin. Stir to ensure the cumin is well distributed.

3. Add Sweetness and Acid:
- Once the onions are well caramelised, sprinkle in the brown sugar. Stir until the sugar has dissolved and evenly coated the onions.
- Pour in the vinegar and stir. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the vinegar has mostly evaporated and the mixture is thick and sticky.

4. Cool the Onions:
- Remove the caramelised onions from the heat and let them cool slightly.

5. Combine the Dip Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. You can use a hand mixer to make this process easier and ensure a smooth texture.
- Fold the cooled caramelised onions into the cream cheese and sour cream mixture. Make sure the onions are evenly distributed throughout the dip.

6. Chill and Serve:
- Transfer the dip into a serving bowl and cover it with plastic wrap.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

7. Enjoy:
- Serve with your favorite chips, crackers, or vegetable sticks. Enjoy this rich and flavorful caramelised onion dip!

With minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, this caramelised onion dip is an easy yet impressive dish that will delight your guests. The combination of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors ensures everyone will be asking for the recipe. Enjoy your homemade caramelised onion dip with your favorite sides and watch it disappear in no time.

Caramelised onion dip FAQ:

How long does the dip need to chill before serving?

The caramelised onion dip should chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together for the best taste.

What pan size is best for caramelising the onions?

A large skillet is recommended for caramelising the onions. This allows for even cooking and prevents the onions from overcrowding, which can cause steaming instead of caramelisation.

Can I substitute the cream cheese or sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or a similar soft cheese. For sour cream, Greek yogurt can be used as a tangy substitute.

How do I know when the onions are properly caramelised?

The onions are properly caramelised when they are very soft, deep brown in color, and have a sweet aroma. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes of cooking on medium-low heat.

How should I store any leftover dip?

Store any leftover caramelised onion dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it tightly to maintain freshness.

Cooking Tips:

- Cook the onions slowly and patiently over medium heat to ensure they caramelize evenly without burning.

- For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar during the cooking process.

- Chill the dip for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Experiment with adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to complement the caramelised onions.

Nutrition Facts

10 Servings
Calories 90kcal
Protein 2.48g
Carbohydrates 6g
Fiber 0.76g
Sugar 4.17g
Fat 7g

Caramelised onion dip