| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 165 | 7g | 3g | 17g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 10g | 6g | 2g | 0.3g |
Imagine biting into a tender leaf of chicory, contrasted with the richness of caramelized onions, and finished with a tantalizingly tangy sherry vinegar reduction. That’s the delightful experience that awaits you with the Chicory with Caramelized Onions and Sherry Vinegar Reduction. This dish, where humble ingredients like chicory and onions are elevated to gourmet heights, is unassuming yet unforgettable.
Why this Recipe Stands Out
Coming from an Afro-Southern background, one thing I cherish is creating dishes that are nutritious and packed with flavor. Just like our Southern greens or the ever-popular jollof rice of West Africa, the Chicory with Caramelized Onions and Sherry Vinegar Reduction is an epitome of warm, comforting food. Its layers of flavor speak to the intricate nature of both African and Southern cuisines.
The balance of sweetness from the caramelized onions, the bitterness of the chicory, and the sharpness of the reduction, reflects a culinary harmony found in the heart of my Atlanta kitchen and beyond. Whether it’s a sunny summer day or a chilly winter night, this recipe brings the warmth and vibrancy you need.
The Health Factor
Surely, food is not just about taste; it’s also about nourishment. Chicory, the star of this dish, is a great source of vitamins and minerals. It’s low in calories but high in fiber, helping you maintain a healthy digestive system. Its slightly bitter taste is an indication of its rich phytonutrient content, which can help in liver detoxification.
Additionally, onions are known for their antibacterial properties and are fantastic sources of antioxidants. Olive oil is a heart-friendly fat that enhances the absorption of vitamins and minerals from the dish. It’s indeed a treat that leaves you feeling satisfied and nourished. Check out this article for more information on the health benefits of chicory.
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled fish or a hearty roast chicken. If you’re a vegetarian, serving this alongside a delicious lentil stew or quinoa salad would create a nutrient-packed meal. It’s reminiscent of my favorite Nigerian dish, jollof rice, and Georgia’s classic collard greens in terms of warmth, comfort, and utter deliciousness.
“Chicory with Caramelized Onions and Sherry Vinegar Reduction”, I reckon, is far more than ‘just another recipe’. It’s a flavorful voyage, a meal that brings together the essence of my kitchen—where Southern comfort meets the West African spice cetral. I hope you cherish savoring it as much as I loved creating it.
What You’ll Need
- 6 heads of chicory, trimmed
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar
- 1 cup dry sherry
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Begin by preparing your ingredients. Trim the heads of chicory and thinly slice your three large onions. This will make them easier to cook and combine with your other ingredients going forward.
Step Two
Heat up 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large saucepan over a medium heat. Allow the butter to melt completely and for the oil to mix in with it. This will form the base for your caramelized onions.
Step Three
Add the thinly sliced onions to the saucepan, stirring them in with the butter and oil. Continue to cook them on a medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and a deep golden brown. This process is crucial for the onions to caramelize properly and take on a rich, sweet flavor.
Step Four
Add 3 tablespoons brown sugar to the onions, stir till its combined. Keep cooking until the sugar melts and the onions are caramelized. This process might take around 15-20 minutes.
Step Five
Pour 2 tablespoons of sherry vinegar and 1 cup of dry sherry into the saucepan with the caramelized onions. Allow this mixture to simmer over low heat until it reduces significantly. This will concentrate the flavors, resulting in a robust and flavorful reduction.
Step Six
While the sherry vinegar reduction is simmering, take the time to steam or blanch your trimmed chicory. This will soften them and make them easier to eat once combined with the rest of the dish. Once cooked to your liking, lightly season them with salt and pepper.
Step Seven
Finally, serve the steamed chicory topped with the caramelized onion and drizzled with the sherry vinegar reduction. Enjoy this deliciously tangy and sweet dish hot, as a side or a main meal!
