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Glazed Pearl Onions and Grapes

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

These glazed pearl onions and grapes offer a sophisticated twist on a classic vegetarian side dish, bringing a beautiful balance of sweet and sharp flavours to your dinner table. The sharpness of the sherry vinegar cuts through the natural sugars of the red grapes, while the pearl onions soften into tender, golden morsels. It is a vibrant, colourful addition that pairs particularly well with rich savoury main courses or a festive nut roast.

This simple, light recipe is ideal for those looking to elevate their vegetable accompaniment beyond the traditional roasted roots. Preparation is straightforward, and the clever technique of oven-glazing ensures the fruit and vegetables are perfectly coated in a glossy, syrupy reduction. Serve it as a unique addition to a Sunday lunch or a celebratory dinner party menu.

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Ingredients for Glazed Pearl Onions and Grapes

  • 575g red pearl onions

  • 80ml Sherry vinegar

  • 60ml water

  • 2 tablespoons sugar

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

  • 1 Turkish or 1/2 California bay leaf

  • 350ml seedless red grapes (about 230g )

How to make Glazed Pearl Onions and Grapes

Preheat oven to 218°C with rack in middle or lower third.

Blanch unpeeled pearl onions in boiling water 2 minutes. Drain and transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. Peel onions and trim off root ends.

Bring onions, vinegar, and water to a simmer in an ovenproof 12-inch heavy skillet with sugar, butter, bay leaf, 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoons pepper, stirring until sugar has dissolved. Cover and simmer 3 minutes.

Uncover skillet and transfer to oven. Roast, stirring once or twice, until most of liquid has evaporated, 15 to 18 minutes. Stir in grapes and roast, stirring once or twice, until liquid glazes onions and grapes, 5 to 8 minutes. Discard bay leaf.

Marimar Estate Don Miguel Vineyard '06

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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