Sherried Onions
Sweet and savory sherried onions feature tender small white onions cooked in butter with a hint of sherry, perfect as a side for elegant dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, simmer whole, peeled onions in salted water until just tender.
- Drain and return the onions to the pan.
- Add butter, sugar, pepper, and sherry to the pan.
- Cook uncovered for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle with snipped fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of thyme to the onions. If you can't find small white onions, pearl onions work well as a substitute. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your sherry; you might prefer less sugar if using a sweet sherry. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of your onions, so keep an eye on them as they simmer.
Serving Suggestions
Sherried onions make a delightful side dish for roasted meats or as a topping for grilled steaks. They pair beautifully with Aunt Peggy'S Irish Soda Bread, adding a sweet and savory contrast. Consider serving them alongside a fresh green salad or incorporating them into a brunch spread with dishes like a yogurt fruit salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the onions in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or additional sherry if needed to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sherried Onions contains roughly 293 calories, with 6g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (131% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 14g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen onions for this recipe?
While fresh onions are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen pearl onions if needed. Just thaw them completely and skip the initial simmering step, adding them directly to the pan with the butter and sherry for a quicker preparation.
What type of sherry should I use?
A dry sherry, such as Fino or Amontillado, works best for this recipe, as it balances the sweetness of the sugar without overpowering the dish. However, if you prefer a sweeter flavor, feel free to use a cream sherry, just adjust the sugar accordingly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the onions ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Simply reheat them gently before serving. For best results, prepare them no more than a day in advance to maintain their flavor and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).