Comfort Cooking with Cabernet Sauvignon: Onion Marmalade

A glass jar filled with rich red wine onion marmalade, accompanied by a spoonful of the savory blend, set amidst fresh red onion slices.

Cooking with wine is one of the simplest ways to add depth and character to a dish, and Cabernet Sauvignon is particularly well suited to it. With its bold structure and layered notes of dark berries, coffee, and chocolate, it brings richness and balance to both savoury and slightly sweet applications.

One of the most versatile ways to use it in the kitchen is in a red wine onion marmalade. Slow-cooked and deeply flavoured, it is a simple recipe that can elevate everything from cheese boards to main meals.

Cabernet Sauvignon Onion Marmalade

Rich, slightly sweet, and deeply savoury, this marmalade brings together caramelised onions and the depth of red wine to create something both comforting and refined.

Ingredients

Serves approximately 1 jar

• 3 large onions (both red and brown onions work!), thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 125 ml BC Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

  
  

Method

1. Cook the onions

   Heat the olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt, and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 20 to 25 minutes until soft and lightly caramelised.

   
   

2. Add the wine

   Pour in the Cabernet Sauvignon and allow it to simmer gently. This will deglaze the pan and begin building the depth of flavour.

   
   

3. Build up the marmalade

   Add the brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and thyme. Stir well and reduce the heat.

   
   

4. Reduce and thicken

   Allow the mixture to cook slowly for a further 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick, glossy, and jam-like in consistency.

   
   

5. Season and cool

   Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow to cool before storing in a jar.

   
   

How to Use It

This onion marmalade is incredibly versatile and works across a variety of dishes. Here are three simple ways to bring it into your meals.

1. Steak with Cabernet Onion Marmalade

A classic combination that highlights both the wine and the dish.

How to serve: Grill or pan-fry your preferred cut of steak to your liking. Allow it to rest, then top generously with the onion marmalade. Finish with a small knob of butter and serve with roasted potatoes or a simple salad.

Why it works: The richness of the steak is balanced by the sweetness and acidity of the marmalade, while the Cabernet Sauvignon ties everything together.

2. Caramelised Onion and Brie Toast

An easy but elegant option for light meals or entertaining.

How to serve: Toast slices of rustic bread and top with soft brie. Spoon over warm onion marmalade and place under the grill for a few minutes until the cheese begins to melt. Finish with fresh thyme or a drizzle of honey or chilli oil if desired.

Why it works: The creamy brie and sweet, wine-infused onions create a balanced and indulgent bite.

3. Gourmet Burger with Red Wine Onion Marmalade

A simple way to elevate a familiar favourite.

How to serve: Prepare your burger as usual and add a generous layer of onion marmalade just before serving. Pair with a mature cheese such as cheddar and a lightly toasted bun.

Why it works: The marmalade adds depth and a touch of sweetness that transforms the overall flavour of the burger.

A Simple Way to Elevate Everyday Cooking

Cooking with BC's Cabernet Sauvignon does not need to be complicated. Even a simple recipe like onion marmalade can bring a new level of flavour to everyday meals, while still feeling approachable and easy to prepare.

It is a reminder that great wine does not only belong in the glass, it has a place in the kitchen too.