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Savory Red Onion Cider Sauce Recipe

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4.9 from 73 reviews

A rich and flavorful savory red onion sauce made by slowly caramelizing red onions and simmering them with apple cider and stock to create a smooth, thickened gravy perfect for enhancing meats and hearty dishes.

Ingredients

Red Onion Sauce Ingredients

  • 3 medium red onions, sliced thinly
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 4 tbsp (1/4 cup) dry hard apple cider such as Strong Bow
  • 500 ml (2 cups) chicken or beef stock
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Onions: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a pan over low heat. Add the thinly sliced red onions and cook gently for about 15 minutes until they become tender and soft.
  2. Brown the Onions: Increase the heat to medium-high and continue cooking the onions for an additional 2-3 minutes until they start to brown, enhancing their flavor through caramelization.
  3. Add the Apple Cider: Pour in 4 tablespoons of dry hard apple cider and cook until the cider has mostly evaporated, intensifying the sauce's taste.
  4. Incorporate Flour: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour evenly over the onions and stir thoroughly to coat and combine, which will help thicken the sauce.
  5. Add the Stock: Gradually pour in 500 ml (2 cups) of chicken or beef stock while continually stirring to prevent lumps from forming.
  6. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, about 5-10 minutes.
  7. Finish and Season: Stir in 1 tablespoon of butter to enrich the sauce, then season with salt and pepper according to taste. Serve warm as a delicious accompaniment to your dish.

Notes

  • Use a dry hard apple cider like Strong Bow for the best flavor; if unavailable, a dry white wine or apple juice can be a substitute but will alter the taste slightly.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken or beef stock with vegetable stock.
  • Make sure to stir continuously when adding stock to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth sauce.
  • This sauce pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted poultry, or hearty vegetarian dishes.