
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.
Used In
Recipes Using onion (2,755)
North American Haggis
North American Haggis
North Carolina Tarheel Hushpuppies
Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group
Northern Bean Soup
A River of Recipes: Native American Recipes Using Commodity Foods by the USDA Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, public domain government resource—original source of recipe Serves: 8
Norwegian Burgers
Norwegian Burgers
Not-so-Sloppy Joes
Contributed by Lil at Catsrecipes Y-Group * Source: Rey
Nut and Potato Roast
(from my Grandmother's collection) Date on card is 1910.
Nut 'n' Mushroom Soup
.
Oakhill Potatoes
Contributed by Jenn B aka Mom2Sam and Tiny via World R
Ochro Rice
Ochro Rice from the Recidemia collection
Ogbono Soup I
Just like the egusi, ogbono soup is thoroughly enjoyed by all Nigerians. It is a particular favourite amongst the lbos in the east to whom this superb soup is deemed incomplete without the addition stockfish.
Ojojo
Serve hot with hot pap or agidi.
Okonomi Yaki
Veggie pancakes. These patties may remind you of Tempura but are really quite different. Serve them with a nice spicy sauce or with soy sauce. Some like to put butter on them. It depends on your meal or if you are eating them as a snack.
Okra and Shrimp Soup
There are many ways to prepare it. It can be made with beef, chicken, shrimp, or oysters. No matter which you choose the preparation is quick and easy, and the end result is always delicious.
Okra Bhaji
Okra Bhaji from the Recidemia collection
Okra Leaves
Okra Leaves from the Recidemia collection
Okra Pilau
Makes 6 servings
Okra Soup
A Delicious Meat Soup
Oksekød med Peberrod
Oksekød med Peberrod Boiled beef with horseradish Serves 6
Old Belarusian Kapusnik
Cabbage soup
Old-fashioned Barbecued Sirloin
com Copyright © 1996-1998 Meals For You.
Old-fashioned Beef Stew
From Menu and Recipes Week 10/14/07 From "Catsrecipes Y-Group"
Old-fashioned Beef Stew I
A stew you will serve in soup bowls: dark-brown beef and vegetables in lots of rich gravy.
Old-fashioned Broccoli Rice Casserole
Makes 6 servings
Old-fashioned Chicken Pot Pies
Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group * Source: Get Togeth
Old-fashioned Herb Marinade
Recipe by Arleen Kaptur.
Old-fashioned Lithuanian Cracker Stuffing
Makes 2½ cups stuffing, enough for 3 – 4 pound chicken.
Old-fashioned Meatloaf for Two
Old-fashioned Meatloaf for Two from the Recidemia collection
Old-fashioned Onion Board
Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group * Source: Mr. Food *
Old-fashioned Potato Salad
This Ol'fashioned potato salad is for any time any place. Easy to make easy to eat ! Enjoy !
Old-fashioned Rice Croquettes
Makes 8 servings
Oleleh
Oleleh from the Recidemia collection
Olive Garden Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
The Olive Garden is known for their creamy chicken and gnocchi soup. This is a rich soup that you can make a full meal from this soup alone. This soup features roasted chicken, potato gnocchi, carrots, celery, and spinach.
Olive Garden Pasta
This tastes exactly like the Pasta e fagioli soup at the Olive Garden. Wonderful! Husband loves it!
Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana I
Olive Garden Zuppa Toscana From Check Restaurant Secret Recipes Prep Time: 10 Minutes | Cook time: 30 Minutes Serves: 2
Oluwombo
Oluwombo or Luwombo is a traditional dish from Uganda. It is both a classic dish of Royal dinners and a dish popular throughout Uganda, especially at holiday time.
Omani Foul
Omani Foul from the Recidemia collection
Omelette - Tortilla
Omelette - Tortilla from the Recidemia collection
Onion and Egg Patties
Recipe by Hooked on Heat
Onion and Pepper Salad
Onion and Pepper Salad from the Recidemia collection
Onion Butter Sauce for Steak
Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group * Source: my old rec
Onion-Fennel Flatbread
Fast-rising makes these moist, fragrant breads quick to prepare. Serve them warm, accompanied with butter or with olive oil for dipping. Contributed by Jenn B aka Mom2Sam and Tiny at World Recipes Y-Group Makes 4.
Onion Soup Mix
Onion Soup Mix
Opelousas Oyster Gumbo
Makes 6 servings
Open-faced Sunshine Burgers
Open-faced Sunshine Burgers from the Recidemia collection
Orange Rice II
Makes 6 servings
Orange-sauced Chicken Stir-fry
Orange-sauced Chicken Stir-fry from the Recidemia collection
Oriental Beef Supper
Makes 6 servings
Oriental Pilaf
* Source: 1,001 Recipes For People With Diabetes by Sue Spitler * 8 servings (about ⅔ cups each)
Oriental Rice Pilaf
Makes 6 servings
Outdoor Beef and Rice Skillet
Makes 4 servings