Caramelized Onion and Date Jam

Instructions

1. Set a medium to small stainless steel sauce pot over medium heat, add oil and allow to heat up until oil is shimmering.
2. Add onions and dates along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat until dates begin to dissolve and onions soften, approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Add brown sugar and water, stir to dissolve. Continue to cook for at least 5 minutes, until onions become a deep dark color and mixture thickens.
4. Add vinegar and stir to combine. Continue to cook until all liquid has evaporated and mixture is thick with a jam-like texture.
5. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract then season to taste with a pinch of salt and pepper to balance flavor.
6. Set aside so jam can cool slowly in pan. This will allow all flavors to meld.
7. Once cool, place jam in an airtight container and store refrigerated for up to a week or more.
8. Chef's Note: Serve jam on crostini with goat cheese or add to a burger for greater depth of flavor.