| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 1 hr | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 316 | 7g | 1g | 60g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 46g | 4g | 3g | 0.15g |
I must confess, a vast majority of my culinary influences stem from my rich Southern and West African heritage. However, every once in a while, I love venturing far from what I know and diving into new flavor formations. That’s precisely how I stumbled upon the incredibly vibrant Roasted Maui Onions recipe. A delicious and healthy blend of sweet, tangy, and aromatic offerings, this dish remains dear to my heart because, in its own unique way, it’s reminiscent of the exhilarating flavors from my childhood and multicultural background.
A Flavorful and Health-Packed Adventure
Beyond the explosion of flavors, what makes the Roasted Maui Onions recipe an absolute masterpiece is its impressive health benefits. The primary ingredient, Maui onions, are known for their rich antioxidant properties, which can boost your overall health. These remarkable Hawaiian onions also contain chromium, a mineral that assists in regulating blood sugar. Additionally, the incorporation of orange juice and fresh pineapple ensures a healthy dose of Vitamin C, known for its immune-boosting properties. Honey, besides adding a delightful natural sweetness, is lauded for its antimicrobial properties. To top it all, the balspecific vinegar promotes improved digestion, while olive oil, rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, is great for heart health.
The Perfect Accompaniment
The beauty of Roasted Maui Onions doesn’t stop at its delicious standalone taste. True to my Afro-Southern fusion style, this dish proves to be an incredibly versatile side, beautifully complementing a range of main courses. Its sweetness pairs perfectly with grilled meats, such as a nice Jerk-spiced Chicken, much like the way pineapple adds a refreshing balance to spicy West African dishes. It also shines alongside a lemongrass-infused grilled fish or a simple baked tofu. In essence, the distinct sweetness and tanginess of Roasted Maui Onions can bring a new life to your typical main courses.
Moreover, if you are a fan of Southern classics like the Onion Casserole, you will find surprising similarities to my Roasted Maui Onions. This recipe can be a delightful way to shake up your usual repertoire, embodying the enchanting essence of Hawaii in each bite.
So, from my kitchen to yours, I invite you to indulge in this delicious journey and experience the wondrous flavors and health benefits of Roasted Maui Onions. And who knows? You might just find a new favorite vegetable dish.
What You’ll Need
- 6 large Maui onions
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup sliced fresh pineapple
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). While the oven is heating, peel the 6 large Maui onions and cut them into halves. Set them aside for now.
Step Two
In a bowl, combine the 1 cup orange juice, 1/2 cup honey, 1/4 cup olive oil, and 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step Three
Place the halved onions in a baking dish, cut sides up. Pour the prepared mixture over the onions, making sure all the onions are well coated.
Step Four
Roast the onions in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until they have become soft and browned. You may want to occasionally baste the onions with the mixture in the baking dish to keep them moist and enhance their flavor.
Step Five
Meanwhile, slice 1 cup worth of fresh pineapple into small, bite-sized pieces. Take the dish out of the oven once the onions are done, then sprinkle the pineapple pieces over the onions while they’re still hot.
Step Six
Season the dish with salt and black pepper according to your preference. Return the dish to the oven and roast for another 15 minutes, or until the pineapple pieces are lightly browned.
Step Seven
Your Roasted Maui Onions are now ready to be served. These can be a delicious side dish or appetizer for any meal. Enjoy!
