Appetizer: Germany – Leberwurst-Canapés mit karamellisierten Zwiebeln

Serving Size: 12

Approximate Time

Prep 35 min

Cook 35 min

Total 1 hr 10 min

Ingredients

- 1 French baguette, about 12 oz (340 g), sliced into 24 (1/2-inch / 1.3 cm) rounds  
- 8 oz (225 g) liverwurst (Leberwurst), chilled and spreadable  
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) unsalted butter, softened (for toasting)  
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) neutral oil (vegetable or canola)  
- 1 tbsp (14 g) unsalted butter (for caramelizing onions)  
- 2 medium yellow onions, about 10 oz (280 g), thinly sliced  
- 1 tsp (4 g) light brown sugar  
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) red wine vinegar  
- 2 tsp (10 g) Dijon mustard  
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste  
- Fresh chives or flat-leaf parsley leaves, for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the caramelized onions: heat oil and 1 tbsp (14 g) butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and turning golden, about 20–25 minutes.  
2. Stir in the brown sugar and continue to cook, stirring more frequently, until the onions are deeply browned and jammy, about 8–10 more minutes. Add the red wine vinegar, cook another 1–2 minutes to deglaze and concentrate the flavor, then remove from heat and let cool slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.  
3. Prepare the baguette rounds: arrange slices on a baking sheet, brush lightly with softened butter, and toast in a 400°F (200°C) oven until crisp and golden, about 6–8 minutes. Alternatively, toast in a dry skillet over medium heat until both sides are golden. Cool slightly.  
4. Make the liverwurst spread: in a small bowl, stir the liverwurst with the Dijon mustard until smooth and spreadable. Taste and adjust mustard or pepper as desired.  
5. Assemble the canapés: spread about 1 tsp (or a thin layer) of the liverwurst mixture onto each toasted baguette round. Top with a small mound of caramelized onions (about 1–2 tsp).  
6. Garnish each canapé with a snip of chive or a small parsley leaf and a light crack of black pepper. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.