Caramelized Onion White Beans with Rosemary & Balsamic

These Caramelized Onion White Beans with Rosemary & Balsamic are a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this recipe emphasizes the rich flavors of caramelized onions and fresh rosemary, enhanced by a tangy balsamic touch. Enjoy this dish over crusty sourdough or alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy One-Pot Meal: Simplify your cooking process with minimal cleanup.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of caramelized onions and balsamic vinegar creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, with bread, or as a side dish.
• Comforting and Hearty: This dish is perfect for chilly nights when you crave something warm and filling.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fiber and protein from white beans, it’s both healthy and delicious.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delectable dish, having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Casserole dish
• Stirring spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Casserole dish: Ideal for slow cooking the onions to achieve that perfect caramelization.
• Stirring spoon: Useful for mixing ingredients thoroughly and breaking down the beans for a creamy texture.
• Knife: Essential for slicing onions and garlic efficiently, ensuring even cooking.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients without mess.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 white onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the Beans Mix

• 2 400g tins of white beans, drained
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 sprigs rosemary, diced

For Creaminess

• 3 tbsp lighter creme fraiche
• 2 tbsp water

For Garnishing

• 20g Pecorino cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp EVOO

How to Make Caramelized Onion White Beans with Rosemary & Balsamic

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

1. Heat the oil or butter in a casserole dish on low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook them for 30 – 45 minutes, stirring often until they soften and turn golden brown.
3. Pour in the balsamic vinegar and continue cooking for another 10 minutes.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Rosemary

1. Add the minced garlic and diced rosemary to the onion mixture.
2. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine with Beans

1. Gently tip in the drained white beans.
2. Use the back of your spoon to crush a portion of the beans to create a thick sauce.

Step 4: Stir in Creaminess

1. Mix in the lighter creme fraiche and water.
2. Continue breaking down some of the beans until you achieve a thick, creamy consistency.

Step 5: Season to Taste

1. Grate in the Pecorino cheese.
2. Season with salt and black pepper according to your preference.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve warm on top of crusty sourdough bread or alongside mashed potatoes!

Enjoy this cozy dish that perfectly balances comfort with vibrant flavors!

How to Serve Caramelized Onion White Beans with Rosemary & Balsamic

Serving caramelized onion white beans with rosemary and balsamic is a delightful experience. This dish offers rich flavors that pair beautifully with various sides and toppings, making it versatile for any meal.

On Toasted Sourdough

• Toast slices of sourdough bread until golden brown, then pile the creamy white beans on top for a hearty appetizer or snack.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Spoon the caramelized onion white beans over creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting and satisfying main dish.

As a Dip

• Serve the beans warm as a dip alongside pita chips or vegetable sticks. The creamy texture makes it perfect for dipping!

In a Salad

• Toss the caramelized beans into a fresh salad for added protein and flavor. They work wonderfully with mixed greens and vinaigrette.

How to Perfect Caramelized Onion White Beans with Rosemary & Balsamic

Perfecting your caramelized onion white beans can elevate this dish to new heights. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh rosemary and high-quality onions enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Slow Cook Onions: Take your time caramelizing onions; low heat helps develop sweetness and depth in flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Add more salt, pepper, or balsamic vinegar based on your preference.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese if you prefer something other than Pecorino; goat cheese is a great alternative.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dish ahead of time; flavors deepen when it sits for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.

Best Side Dishes for Caramelized Onion White Beans with Rosemary & Balsamic

Pairing side dishes with caramelized onion white beans creates a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement the main dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread
   Serve crispy garlic bread to soak up every bit of the creamy sauce.

2. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and health benefits to your plate.

3. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad provides a nutty contrast that pairs well with the rich beans.

4. Steamed Broccoli
   Bright green steamed broccoli adds freshness and balances out the richness of the dish.

5. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and brightness, enhancing the overall dining experience.

6. Herbed Rice
   Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs complements the flavors of the beans beautifully.

7. Cucumber Salad
   Cool cucumber salad adds a refreshing element that cuts through richness, making it an ideal side.

8. Sweet Potato Fries
   Crispy sweet potato fries bring sweetness and texture, creating an exciting contrast with creamy beans.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking caramelized onion white beans with rosemary & balsamic can be simple, but some common mistakes can disrupt the process. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Using high heat: Cooking onions at high temperatures can lead to burning instead of caramelizing. Always use low heat and be patient for that golden brown color.
• Skipping the crushing step: Failing to crush some of the white beans can result in a thin sauce. Make sure to mash a portion with the back of your spoon for a creamy texture.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can leave the dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Overcooking the garlic: Adding minced garlic too early can make it bitter. Always add it just before the beans to maintain its flavor.
• Ignoring storage guidelines: Improper storage can affect freshness. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freezer as directed below.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Caramelized Onion White Beans with Rosemary & Balsamic

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Caramelized Onion White Beans with Rosemary & Balsamic

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, and cover with foil for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pan, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making caramelized onion white beans with rosemary & balsamic.

What makes caramelized onion white beans with rosemary & balsamic special?

The combination of sweet caramelized onions, hearty white beans, and aromatic rosemary creates a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize the recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different herbs like thyme or sage, or include vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition.

How do I make this dish vegan?

Simply replace butter with olive oil and use a plant-based cream alternative instead of lighter crème fraîche.

How long does it take to prepare caramelized onion white beans with rosemary & balsamic?

The total cooking time is about one hour, mainly due to the caramelization process of the onions which enhances their sweetness.

Final Thoughts

Caramelized onion white beans with rosemary & balsamic is not only delicious but also versatile. Serve it on crusty sourdough or alongside mashed potatoes for a cozy meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or vegetables!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Caramelized Onion White Beans with Rosemary & Balsamic

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Caramelized Onion White Beans with Rosemary & Balsamic is a heartwarming dish that combines sweet, slow-cooked onions with creamy white beans. The rich flavors of caramelized onions and aromatic rosemary meld beautifully, while the tangy balsamic vinegar adds a delightful kick. This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings, offering a satisfying meal over toasted sourdough or alongside fluffy mashed potatoes. Packed with nutrients and easy to prepare in just one pot, this dish is an excellent choice for anyone craving comfort food without sacrificing flavor.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 white onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (400g each) white beans, drained
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 sprigs rosemary, diced
• 3 tbsp lighter crème fraîche
• 20g Pecorino cheese (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)

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Instructions

1. In a casserole dish, melt butter over low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 30-45 minutes, stirring until golden brown.
2. Stir in balsamic vinegar and continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and rosemary; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Gently fold in drained white beans, crushing some with the back of your spoon to create a thicker sauce.
5. Mix in lighter crème fraîche and water until you achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Grate in Pecorino cheese (if using) and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 15mg