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Vegan Caramelized Onion Tofu Dip Recipe

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3.9 from 11 reviews

This Vegan Caramelized Onion Dip is a creamy, flavorful appetizer perfect for snacking or entertaining. Featuring slowly caramelized yellow onions blended with silken tofu and umami-rich miso and tamari, it delivers a rich depth of savory and sweet flavors without any dairy. Serve warm with pita bread, tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh veggies for a delicious, healthful treat that’s both vegan and gluten-free adaptable.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Dip Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 3 small yellow onions, thinly sliced (~8 cups or 700 g)
  • 2 large cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 – 1½ tsp sea salt (divided)
  • 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp tamari or soy sauce (ensure gluten-free as needed)
  • 1 Tbsp white miso paste (or chickpea miso, ensure gluten-free as needed)
  • 1 tsp maple syrup
  • 1 (12 oz.) package soft silken tofu
  • 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)

Serving Suggestions

  • Pita bread
  • Tortilla chips
  • Sliced veggies (cucumber recommended)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions, minced garlic, and ½ teaspoon of sea salt. Cook the mixture, stirring every 5 minutes for 25-30 minutes, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Reduce the heat to medium-low as needed to prevent burning.
  2. Add Flavorings: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce, 1 tablespoon white miso paste, and 1 teaspoon maple syrup. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the caramelized onions, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir well and cook for an additional 5 minutes to deepen the flavors. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
  3. Prepare the Tofu Base: In a separate bowl, whisk together the soft silken tofu, remaining ½ teaspoon sea salt, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice if using. This will form the creamy base of the dip.
  4. Combine & Adjust: Fold the caramelized onion mixture into the tofu base until thoroughly combined. Taste the dip and adjust seasoning as needed; add more tamari or salt for saltiness or more apple cider vinegar for brightness.
  5. Serve: Serve the dip warm alongside pita bread, tortilla chips, crackers, and/or sliced fresh vegetables like cucumber. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for added color and freshness.
  6. Storage: Store any leftover dip in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. Note that this dip is not freezer friendly.

Notes

  • Lemon juice is optional but adds a nice brightness to balance the dip’s sweetness.
  • Ensure tamari and miso paste used are gluten-free if needed for dietary restrictions.
  • Adjust salt gradually to taste, especially if using soy sauce which can vary in saltiness.
  • If you prefer a stronger caramelized flavor, cook onions a bit longer on lower heat.
  • This dip is best served warm but can be enjoyed at room temperature.
  • Leftovers keep well in the fridge but do not freeze, as texture and flavor will be affected.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Vegan
  • Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free