Idaho Onion Jam
- Prep: 25 mins
- Cook: 50 mins
Discover the ultimate Idaho Onion Jam recipe that captures the sweet, caramelized flavors of Idaho-grown onions. Created by Bryan “The Onion Chef” Hewett, Corporate Chef at Owyhee Produce , this jam is perfect for spreading over High Desert Milk cream cheese or serving warm with a savory pork roast. Featuring local Idaho onions, showcasing the best of Idaho’s produce. For an extra burst of flavor, substitute the red wine vinegar with Ruby Port Wine to elevate this Idaho Onion Jam to new heights. Try this easy recipe and taste the essence of Idaho in every spoonful.
🧅 Did you know?
Idaho Ag Fact: Idaho ranks 4th nationally for onion production, shipping over 600 million pounds of high-quality onions each year for local and national markets.
Idaho-grown onions, especially yellow storage onions, are valued by retailers and foodservice professionals for their excellent shelf life. With proper handling, these onions can be stored for several months, helping to ensure a consistent, local supply long after harvest season ends.
Categorized: AppetizersFrom the Chef
Ingredients
¼ cup Canola or Olive oil
3/4 cup Brown Sugar
4 cups Idaho grown yellow or red onion (red onion makes an even sweeter version) Chopped
Dash of salt
½ cup red wine vinegar or port or red wine or sherry
Featured Idaho Produce
Steps
Heat oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Stir sugar into oil with a wooden spoon, stirring constantly, until mixture is a light caramel color, about 10 minutes. Mixture will be very hot. DO NOT BURN!
Stir onion, salt, and black pepper into sugar mixture. The onions will immediately start to caramelize. Stir frequently over medium low heat until sugar has dissolved and onions are browned, about 15 minutes. If it needs longer to brown, give it some more time.
Pour red wine vinegar into onion mixture; simmer until mixture reaches a jam consistency, about 30 minutes. Let cool to serve.






