Spicy Sweet Onion Marmalade Recipe for Canning
Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful homemade condiment, look no further than Spicy Sweet Onion Marmalade. This recipe combines the sweetness of onions with a hint of spice and tang, making it a perfect addition to sandwiches, cheeses, or as a glaze for meats. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be preserved through canning, so you can enjoy it all year round!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Spicy Sweet Onion Marmalade at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking. The balance of sweet and spicy creates a unique taste that store-bought options often can’t match. Canning this marmalade also means you can share jars with friends or keep them for future use, making it a thoughtful gift or a handy pantry staple.
How to Make Spicy Sweet Onion Marmalade
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds onions (preferably sweet or a mix of sweet and regular)
- 1 cup apple juice (or apple cider)
- 1/2 cup cider vinegar (or other 5% vinegar)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (or canning salt)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground dry mustard
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional – to taste)
- 3 tablespoons Low or No Sugar Needed pectin – flex batch (equals 1 box)
- 1/2 teaspoon butter or oil (optional to reduce foaming, but I always use it)
- 1 cup honey*
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
Directions:
If canning, prepare your water bath canner and 6 half pint jars with lids, keeping them warm until needed. If you plan to store the marmalade in the fridge or freezer, prepare jars or other containers.
Cut the ends off the onions and peel them. Slice them in half, then cut each half into quarters (or thirds for larger onions). Turn the halves and cut them into 1/4-inch wide slices. You should have about 6 cups of onion slices.
In a large 8-quart stockpot, combine the sliced onions, apple juice, vinegar, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, ground mustard, and crushed red pepper flakes.
Gradually stir in the pectin and then add the butter if using. Bring the mixture to a boil that cannot be stirred down while stirring constantly.
Add the honey and brown sugar. Return to a full boil and let it boil for 1 minute while stirring continuously. Remove from heat and skim off any foam if needed.
For canning: Follow canning instructions to process the marmalade. For refrigerator or freezer storage: Allow to cool and then store in jars or containers.
How to Serve Spicy Sweet Onion Marmalade
Spicy Sweet Onion Marmalade is versatile. Serve it as a spread on sandwiches, pair it with cheese and crackers, use it as a topping for grilled meats, or mix it into dressings for added flavor. It’s a fantastic way to enhance the taste of many dishes!
How to Store Spicy Sweet Onion Marmalade
If you’re canning the marmalade correctly, it can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year. After opening a jar, keep it in the fridge for up to three weeks. If stored in the fridge or freezer in airtight containers, it should last for several months.
Tips to Make Spicy Sweet Onion Marmalade
- Experiment with the level of spice by adjusting the crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
- For a smoother texture, you can blend the mixture slightly after cooking if desired.
- Always ensure your canning jars and lids are correctly sterilized to prevent spoilage.
Variation
You can add different flavors like herbs (rosemary or thyme) or even switch out the vinegar for a more complex flavor profile. Enjoy experimenting!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe without canning?
A: Yes, you can store it in the fridge or freezer in airtight containers.
Q: How long does the marmalade last?
A: If canned properly, it can last up to a year. Opened jars should be consumed within three weeks when refrigerated.
Q: Can I use other types of onions?
A: Yes, you can mix sweet onions with regular onions, but sweet varieties will give the best flavor balance.
