Caramelized Onion Dip is a classic party favorite with its rich, savory flavor and creamy texture. This homemade version takes it up a notch with sweet caramelized onions, fragrant thyme, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor. Perfect for dipping chips, crackers, or fresh veggies, this dip is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 white onions, diced
- 1/2 tablespoon dried thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 cups sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Caramelizing the Onions
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add Onions: Add the diced onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
- Season: Sprinkle the onions with dried thyme leaves, salt, and pepper to taste. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Deglaze: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Cool: Remove the caramelized onions from the heat and let them cool to room temperature.
Making the Dip
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the caramelized onions with sour cream and mayonnaise. Stir until well combined.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dip and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. You can also add more Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dip for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving
- Garnish: Just before serving, garnish the caramelized onion dip with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and serve with your favorite dippers, such as potato chips, pretzels, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes:
- Onion Caramelization: Take your time caramelizing the onions to develop their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Low and slow is the key to achieving perfectly caramelized onions.
- Consistency: For a thicker dip, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. If you prefer a lighter version, opt for light sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Variations:
- Cheese Addition: Stir in shredded cheese such as sharp cheddar, gruyere, or parmesan for an extra creamy and cheesy dip.
- Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or chives to customize the flavor of the dip.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this dip ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the caramelized onion dip ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this dip?
A: While you can technically freeze the dip, the texture may change upon thawing, and it may become watery. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for short-term storage.
Q: What can I serve with caramelized onion dip?
A: This dip pairs well with a variety of dippers, including potato chips, pretzels, crackers, toasted baguette slices, or fresh vegetable crudites such as carrot sticks, celery, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips.
Q: Can I make this dip vegan?
A: Yes, you can make a vegan version of this dip by using dairy-free sour cream and mayonnaise alternatives. Check the labels to ensure they are vegan-friendly.
Q: How long will this dip last in the refrigerator?
A: This dip will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
Caramelized Onion Dip is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that is easy to make and bursting with flavor. With its sweet caramelized onions, fragrant thyme, and creamy texture, this dip is sure to be a hit at any gathering or party. Whether served with chips, crackers, or fresh veggies, this homemade dip is a delicious addition to any snack spread. Try making this flavorful dip for your next gathering and watch it disappear in no time!
