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5 from 2 votes

Vegan Caramelized Onion Dip

This creamy vegan caramelized onion dip is a blend of sweet, lucious caramelized onions with buttery smooth cashews and is the perfect dip for a party or gathering that everyone will love!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 241kcal
Author: Allie Petersen

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Chop onions into smaller pieces. It's okay if they are not perfectly uniform but make them close to bite-sized. (You don't want a giant piece in your dip).
  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat with some olive oil. Add in diced onion. Add a pinch of salt (NOT full 1/2 tsp). Cook for 5 minutes.
  • Turn heat to medium-low and add balsamic vinegar. Cook for 20 minutes, stirring every minute or two. Add in 1-2 tbsp of water halfway through to help steam the onions and deglaze the pan. Finished onions should be browned, soft, and fragrant.
  • Add cashews, water, spices, and HALF of caramelized onions to high speed blender. Blend for ~ 3 minutes until smooth and creamy, stopping occasionally to scrape down edges. If using a food processor you may have to blend a little longer until desired texture is obtained.
    Your final dip will be smooth and slightly liquidy, but don't worry it will get thicker as it sits in the fridge.
  • In a small bowl, combine blended cashews with remaining caramelized onions and stir until combined. You can either eat right away or let it chill for 1-2 hours (it will thicken up more as it chills). Enjoy with crackers or veggies.

Notes

This dip can be enjoyed with a variety of foods like:
    • Crackers (multigrain, wheat, or regular)
    • Tortilla chips
    • Potato chips
    • Veggie sticks (carrots, peppers, and more)
    • Pita bread or chips
    • Pretzels
    • Baguette or crostini
    • On sandwiches or burgers
    • As a side with grilled veggies
FAQ:
How many people does this dip serve?
This recipe could serve a party of 4 people. If you are making for a bigger group or cookout I recommend doubling the recipe. You don't want to run out of this delicious dip!!
Can I customize any flavors in this dip?
Yes! For a smoky flavor add some smoked paprika. Add herbs like oregano or thyme for another tasty flavor. Cook your onions with some freshly minced garlic flavor for a garlic-infused dip. Transport yourself to the Mediterranean by adding in some sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers.
Do I need to soak my cashews before making this recipe?
If you are using a high quality blender you do not need to soak your cashews. However if you are using a regular blender or a food processor I recommend soaking your cashews so your dip has a creamier texture.
 
How to make the best caramelized onions:
    • Use a sweet onion (like Vidalia)
    • Use a large pan so onions cook more evenly
    • Cook SLOWLY (patience is key to making cook caramelized onions)
    • Add a sprinkle of salt so that the onions release a little of their natural juices
    • Watch for the color change (as the onions cook, they will slowly turn a golden brown color).
 
 
 

Nutrition

Calories: 241kcal | Carbohydrates: 17g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Sodium: 304mg | Potassium: 323mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 1IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 32mg | Iron: 2mg