Save A bold and unconventional latte that blends the subtle sweetness of caramelized onions with rich espresso and creamy milk. This avant-garde beverage offers a savory twist on the classic coffee drink, perfect for adventurous palates seeking new flavor frontiers.
I first tasted onion in a latte at a culinary arts showcase. The unexpected fusion of sweet caramelized onions with robust espresso was an instant conversation starter, and the creamy finish made it surprisingly moreish.
Ingredients
- Yellow onion: 1 small, thinly sliced
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: Pinch
- Espresso: 2 shots (60 ml), freshly brewed
- Whole milk (or oat milk): 300 ml
- Honey or maple syrup (optional): 1 teaspoon, for sweetness
Instructions
- Prepare the onion base:
- In a small skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced onion, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deeply caramelized and golden, about 12 – 15 minutes. Do not rush this step (low and slow yields the best flavor).
- Blend the caramelized onions:
- Transfer the caramelized onions and any pan juices to a blender. Add 2 tablespoons of milk and blend until completely smooth. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to ensure a silky texture.
- Make the latte:
- Brew 2 shots of espresso and divide evenly between two cups. Add 1 tablespoon of the strained onion purée to each cup, stirring well to combine.
- Froth the milk:
- Heat the remaining milk until steaming, then froth using a milk frother or whisk until creamy and foamy.
- Assemble:
- Pour the frothed milk over the espresso-onion mixture in each cup. Sweeten with honey or maple syrup if desired. Gently stir and serve immediately.
Save When my partner tasted this for the first time, their expression shifted from skeptical curiosity to sheer delight. Now, it is a quirky favorite whenever we host brunch for friends who love trying new things.
Required Tools
Skillet, blender, fine-mesh sieve, espresso machine or strong coffee maker, milk frother or whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy. To make vegan, use plant-based milk and butter. Always make sure all ingredients are suitable for your dietary needs.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 110, Total Fat: 4 g, Carbohydrates: 15 g, Protein: 4 g
Save This latte makes for a memorable brunch treat or an impressive conversation piece. Adventurous drinkers will appreciate its balance of sweet, savory, and creamy.
Recipe Guide
- → What type of onion works best for this latte?
Yellow onions are recommended for their balanced sweetness, but sweet or red onions can provide subtle variations in flavor.
- → Can milk alternatives be used?
Yes, oat milk or other plant-based milks substitute well for whole milk, making the drink suitable for dairy-free or vegan diets.
- → How do I achieve silky onion purée?
Blend caramelized onions thoroughly with a splash of milk, and strain through a fine-mesh sieve for a smooth, velvety texture.
- → Should the onion purée be sweetened?
The natural caramelization gives sweetness, but adding honey or maple syrup can enhance the overall flavor if desired.
- → Is an espresso machine necessary?
No; a strong coffee maker works if espresso is unavailable. The robust coffee flavor complements the savory base.
- → What pairings are recommended?
A sharp cheese croissant matches the beverage's bold savory profile for a memorable culinary experience.