onion
Onions are a good source of vitamin C, dietary fiber, and prebiotic compounds (inulin). They contain quercetin and other polyphenolic antioxidants, particularly concentrated in the outer layers and red varieties.
About
The onion (Allium cepa) is a bulbous vegetable belonging to the amaryllidaceae family, native to the highlands of Central Asia. The edible bulb consists of concentric layers of modified leaves containing sulfurous compounds responsible for the characteristic pungent aroma and tear-inducing properties when cut. Common varieties include yellow (sweet and mellow), red (slightly sweeter with mild peppery notes), and white onions (sharper, more pungent), each offering distinct flavor profiles and textural qualities. The plant's flavor compounds transform dramatically with cooking—sulphur-containing compounds break down into sweet, caramelized notes through the Maillard reaction.
Yellow onions are the most versatile all-purpose variety in European and North American cuisines, while red onions are preferred for raw preparations due to their milder flavor and visual appeal. Pearl onions and cipollini represent smaller, sweeter cultivars used for specific applications.
Culinary Uses
Onions function as a foundational aromatic base in countless cuisines worldwide. They are sautéed as a primary component in mirepoix (French), soffritto (Italian), and holy trinity preparations (Louisiana Creole), forming the flavor foundation for stocks, soups, stews, and sauces. Caramelized onions develop deep, sweet complexity through prolonged cooking and appear in French onion soup, as a burger topping, and in numerous savory tarts.
Raw onions provide sharp, pungent flavor to fresh salsas, slaws, pickles, and salads. Grilled or roasted onions become tender and develop subtle sweetness, complementing grilled meats and vegetables. Creamed onions, onion relishes, and crispy fried onions represent further preparations across global culinary traditions.
Recipes Using onion (2,749)
Italian Vegetable Medley
Makes 4 servings.
Italian Wedding Soup
For variations, hints and more recipes for this versatile dish, see sneakykitchen.com
Jagacinda
Jagacinda from the Recidemia collection
Jalapeno Eggs
Jalapeno eggs for two persons:
Jamaican Pepper Pot Soup
There are many, many variations of pepper Pot Soup. This version contains chicken, although one could easily change to beef, by using diced lean Beef and beef broth.
Jamaican Pumpkin-Coconut Soup
Very spicy and hot soup.
Jamaican Roast Beef
Jambalaya II
Jambalaya
Jambalaya (Rijstschotel à Drawer)
Jambalaya (Rijstschotel à Drawer) from the Recidemia collection
Jambalaya Wrap I
Makes 6 servings
Jani me Fasul
White bean casserole soup
JELLIED FISH
JELLIED FISH from the Recidemia collection
Jellied Mushrooms with Mayo
In Romanian: Ciuperci cu gelatina si maioneza
Jerk-seasoned Pork Chops and Shrimp
Contributed by [http://groups.yahoo.com/group/catsrecipes/ Catsrecipes Y-Group] * Makes 6 servings
Jersey Bay Scallops with Rice
Makes 4 servings.
Jiffy Chicken and Rice Skillet
Makes 6 servings.
Jiffy Tartar Sauce
Contributed by [http://Groups.Yahoo.Com/Group/Catsrecipes/ Catsrecipes Y-Group] * Source: my old rec
Jimmy's Minestrone
Jimmy's Minestrone from the Recidemia collection
Jjinmandu
Steamed dumplings Jjinmandu
Joanne's Bean Soup
Contributed by [http://Groups.Yahoo.Com/Group/Pressurecookerrecipes/ Pressurecookerrecipes Y-Group]
Jollof Rice
Makes 6 servings.
Josh's Curry Chicken
I used sour cream in this recipe instead of the plain yogurt that is found in many dishes from western asia and the middle east.
Jota I
Jota is a typical Slovenian dish eaten in all parts of Slovenia with minor variations. Sauerkraut and sour turnip soup.
Juicy Fried Steaks
Juicy Fried Steaks from the Recidemia collection
Juliennesuppe
It takes time to prepare the vegetables, but the taste you get from this soup makes it all well worth it. Serve with fresh French bread.
Kabocha Soup
Japanese pumpkin soup. A lovely pumpkin soup posted in response to a recipe request from an online source.
Kadi pakora
Kadi pakora from the Recidemia collection
Kadon Mannok
Guam Style Chicken Soup
Kadun Pika II
Kadun Pika II from the Recidemia collection
Kafta bil Sanieh
Baked Kafta right|Kafta bil sanieh
Kahlúa Barbecue Sauce
Contributed by [http://Groups.Yahoo.Com/Group/Catsrecipes/ Catsrecipes Y-Group] * Makes about 2 cups
Kale And Bean Soup
This recipe taken from www.Portuguese-recipes.com
Kale Soup with Soy and Lime
An Asian-spiced soup that is fast and really delicious. Use fish sauce (nuoc mam or nam pla, available at Asian markets) instead of soy sauce if you have some.
Kalfakjot a Fati
Kalfakjot a Fati Veal in a casserole
Kamut Kitchiri
Kamut Kitchiri from the Recidemia collection
Kapenta Stew
Kapenta is a perch-like fish found in the Zambezi and other rivers of Zambia. Serve with Nshima.
Kapusniak
Sauerkraut soup
Kapusta I
Hot cabbage soup From "Catsrecipes Y-Group" Source: my old recipes Serves 8
Karela Masala
Tangy bitter-gourd
Karen's New England Clam Chowder
A Sneaky Kitchen recipe from Karen Danielson.
Karoo Roast Ostrich Steak
Karoo Roast Ostrich Steak from the Recidemia collection
Kartoffelpuffer
Kartoffelpuffer
Kartoffelsalat
Makes about 12 servings Kartoffelsalat
Kartoffelsalat I
German potato salad From "Catsrecipes Y-Group" Source: Biergarten, Germany, Epcot Center Makes 3 cups
Kartoffelsalat II
Serves 6 Kartoffelsalat II
Karvarma
Karvarma from the Recidemia collection
Käs Spätzle
Käs Spätzle is a German/Bavarian dish my Oma always makes. This is her recipe!
Katchi Biryani
Katchi Biryani from the Recidemia collection
Kazun Ywek Thoke (Watercress Salad)
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Kebab Koutbane
Appetizer Kebabs in a Moorish Marinade Yield: 8 6-inch kebabs This typically Moroccan dish is an excellent hors d'oeuvre to serve at any time.