Carmelized Onion Dip

The cooler evening temperatures are making it very desirable to be cozy inside. The tomatoes and onions from the garden have been harvested. They are perfect for fresh salsa. Some people prefer to omit eating raw onions for fear of having onion breath. The good news is that cooked onions retain the beneficial nutrient, quercetin, undamaged by the heat, and cooked onions are easier on the breath than raw onions. Quercetin is a flavonoid that may inhibit the growth of certain cancers. Quercetin has been shown to lower bad cholesterol and raise good cholesterol. Onions are a natural source of quercetin and chromium, which assists in blood sugar control. Onions like garlic contain sulfur compounds that work to detox our bodies by binding to heavy metals such as lead, mercury and cadmium and then escorting them out of the body.

Properties of the onion also include being protective to the cardio-vascular system. The green onion tops are a source of vitamin A. With all of these great benefits it is no wonder that some researchers are wondering if it is actually the onion, which is responsible for the French paradox, which allows the French to indulge in so many rich foods while remaining heart healthy. Onions are one of Julia Child’s favourite ingredients and are a staple in French cookery. Onions add a lot a flavour and health benefits to so many dishes, making it a favoured ingredient in Canadian prairie cooking as well. This is a creamy dip, with lots of great flavour and wonderful for entertaining.

Caramelized Onion Dip

2 onions sliced and diced

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons butter

1 cup sour cream

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

2 tablespoons finely chopped green

onion

In a heavy-bottomed fry pan sauté the onions in the olive oil and butter, until caramelized. This is a slow process that can take 20 minutes, but worth the effort. Allow the caramelized onions to cool and stir them into the sour cream, and remaining ingredients. Chill to serve.