
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)
Out on the Range Beans
Out on the Range Beans from the Recidemia collection
Oven Hash
oven hash
Oven Swiss Steak
Original recipe Ready in: 2 – 5 hrs Serves/Makes: 8
Oxtail Consommé with Sherry
I have more cookbooks... but many do not have recipes on page 17. It's usually some part of an intro to the cookbook.
Oxtail Soup
Oxtail Soup from the Recidemia collection
Oyster Bread Dressing
Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group * Source: Southern L
Oyster Stew with Tomatoes and Rice
This is a unique and delicious version of the traditional oyster stew
Packaged Steak Supper
Packaged Steak Supper from the Recidemia collection
Paella Casserole
Makes 6 servings
Paella Salad II
Makes 6 servings
Paella - Spanish Rice
Paella is a rice dish, originally from Valencia, Spain, where it is eaten especially on Sundays and in Falles.
Pae Pya Khao
Pae Pya Khao (Fried tofu) is an excellent appetizer or a side dish for vegetarians. It’s also best served with bread. Serves 4 people.
Pajeon
Green onion pancake Pajeon (Green Onion Pancake)
Pakistani Chicken with Rice
Makes 4 servings
Paksiu
Paksiu from the Recidemia collection
Palak Aur Kali Mirch Ka Soup
right|Name of the Recipe
Palak Muragh
right|Name of the Recipe
Palmnut Soup
Palmnut Soup from the Recidemia collection
Panama Clam Chowder
Panama Clam Chowder from the Recidemia collection
Panamanian Sancocho de Gallina
Panamanian Sancocho de Gallina from the Recidemia collection
Pan Bagnat I
Sandwiches, Monaco-style Serves 6
Paneer butter masala
also known as Paneer Makhani is a vegetarian dish from India which is also popular in the west. The dish combines paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a butter sauce quite similar to butter chicken.
Paneer Shimla Mirch
Cottage cheese with peppers
Paparac-Kvietka Salad
Fern flower salad
Papas Rellenas
Papas Rellenas
Paprika Chicken
Paprika Chicken is a dish of Hungarian origin traditionally made with chicken, paprika and lard, served over pasta. There is no official recipe. Preparations of this dish often vary between families.
Parade Magazine's Sheila Lukins' Favorite Bar-B-Q Sauce
* Makes 3 cups
Paraguayan Beef Soup
Paraguayan Beef Soup from the Recidemia collection
Parmesan Rice and Pasta Pilaf
I suggest using a whole grain pasta and rice here and adjust the cooking time accordingly for better nutrition.
Passover Glazed Chicken with Matzo-Nut Stuffing
Passover Glazed Chicken with Matzo-Nut Stuffing from the Recidemia collection
Passover Stuffing with Chestnuts and Mushroom
Passover Stuffing with Chestnuts and Mushroom from the Recidemia collection
Pasta and bean soup
(Pasta Fagioli) is a true classical Italian peasant dish, again overcomplicated all too often by highfallutin' chefs.
Pasta and Veggie Salad
Pasta and Veggie Salad from the Recidemia collection
Pasta Fagiola
Spaghetti Sauce (Meatless) by the US Department of Agriculture, public domain government resource—original source of recipe
Pasta Verde Salad
Pasta Verde Salad from the Recidemia collection
Pasta with a Twist
Pasta with a Twist from the Recidemia collection
Pasta with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Always check the ingredients to make sure the product is vegan.
Pasta with Green Beans and Mushrooms
Contributed by World Recipes Y-Group
Pastina - stuffed Avocado
Pastina - stuffed Avocado from the Recidemia collection
Patatas Bravas
A tasty spanish apetiser - crispy fried potatoes with spicy tomato sauce topping.
Patrick's Irish Lamb Soup
Patrick's Irish Lamb Soup from the Recidemia collection
Pawtucket Chili
Pawtucket Chili from the Recidemia collection
Peachy Ham Dinner
Makes 6 servings
Pean's Sausage Mushroom Appetizers
by user Pean
Peanut Burgers with Satay Sauce
Peanut Burgers with Satay Sauce from the Recidemia collection
Peanut Butter Noodles
Try this recipe for a change from the usual and common Pasta/noodles recipe.
Peanut sauce 2
Peanut sauce 2 from the Recidemia collection
Peanut Sauce Benin
Peanut Sauce Benin from the Recidemia collection
Pearl Barley Risotto
Risotto can be made with pearl barley instead of Arborio rice. The advantages of using barley instead of rice are that it's cheaper and doesn't require so much stirring. The correct texture is slightly chewy.
Peas and Rice
Peas and Rice from the Recidemia collection