Caramelized Onion Dip Chives (Print Version)

Creamy blend of caramelized onions, sour cream, and fresh chives, ideal for dips and spreads.

# Ingredient List:

→ Onions

01 - 2 large yellow onions, finely diced
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - ½ teaspoon kosher salt
05 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
06 - ½ teaspoon sugar

→ Dip Base

07 - 1½ cups sour cream, full-fat
08 - ½ cup mayonnaise
09 - 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
10 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
11 - ½ teaspoon onion powder

→ Fresh Herbs

12 - ¼ cup finely chopped fresh chives
13 - 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley

# How to Make:

01 - In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add diced onions, salt, pepper, and sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are deeply golden and caramelized, approximately 30 to 35 minutes. Reduce heat if onions brown too quickly. Allow to cool to room temperature.
02 - In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
03 - Fold cooled caramelized onions, chives, and parsley into the dip base. Mix thoroughly to combine.
04 - Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with additional salt, pepper, or spices.
05 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
06 - Serve chilled, garnished with extra chives, alongside chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Deep, real flavor: Thirty-five minutes of slow caramelization transforms humble yellow onions into something rich, jammy, and irresistible.
  • Effortlessly easy: Rated easy and ready in 50 minutes total, this dip suits cooks of every level.
  • Crowd-pleasing versatility: Equally at home with chips, crackers, crudités, or spread onto sandwiches.
  • Make-ahead friendly: The flavor actually improves after a night in the refrigerator, making party prep stress-free.
  • Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian: Fits a wide range of dietary needs when using certified gluten-free ingredients.
  • Serves 8: Generous yield that scales up easily for larger gatherings.
02 -
  • Don't rush the onions: True caramelization takes 30–35 minutes over medium-low heat. Turning up the heat produces bitter, unevenly cooked onions rather than the sweet, jammy result you want.
  • Make it ahead: This dip can be prepared a full day in advance; the flavor deepens and improves overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Lighten it up: Substitute half of the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter texture without sacrificing creaminess.
  • Add heat or smoke: A pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika takes the dip in a bolder direction.
  • Check your labels: For a certified gluten-free version, verify that the Worcestershire sauce and mayonnaise carry a gluten-free certification. For a fully vegetarian dip, use a fish-free Worcestershire sauce.
  • Allergen awareness: This recipe contains dairy (sour cream, butter) and eggs (mayonnaise). Always check all ingredient labels to confirm allergen status for your guests.
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