Seeni Sambal (Caramelized Onion Relish)

Ingredients

• 3 large, thinly sliced Onion
• 3 small, finely chopped Green chilies
• 3 tbsp Sugar
• 1 small Cinnamon stick
• 3 small, crushed Cardamom pods
• 3 whole Cloves
• 1 tbsp Tamarind paste
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 2 tbsp Vegetable oil

Instructions

1. 1Place a 10-inch heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat (325°F / 160°C). Add the 2 tbsp of vegetable oil.
2. 2Once the oil is shimmering, add the 3 large, thinly sliced onions and the 3 small, finely chopped green chilies. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes, or until the onions have softened and become translucent.
3. 3Reduce the heat to low (250°F / 120°C). Add the 3 tbsp of sugar, 1 small cinnamon stick, 3 small, crushed cardamom pods, and 3 whole cloves to the pot. Stir everything together and continue to cook, stirring very frequently, for 30-45 minutes. The onions should become deeply caramelized, dark golden brown, and sticky. Be careful not to burn them.
4. 4Stir in the 1 tbsp of tamarind paste and the 1/2 tsp of salt until well combined. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. 5Remove the pot from the heat. Let the Seeni Sambal cool in the pot for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the relish to thicken slightly.
6. 6Serve the Seeni Sambal as a relish or accompaniment.

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