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onion

ProducePeak season varies by region and harvest timing; in the Northern Hemisphere, onions are harvested June through September, with storage extending availability year-round. Certain regions practice spring harvesting of green/scallion onions, while mature bulbs remain available throughout the year in most markets.

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)

RCI-VG.004.1523.001

Western Caviar

Makes 3 cups Source: Marlboro country Cookbook From "Catsrecipes Y-Group"

RCI-VG.004.1529.001

White Bean and Bacon Soup

This recipe came from an estate sale. It was obtained when the family collection was purchased from the Burnett Estate in Terrell, Texas in 1981.

RCI-VG.004.1533.001

White Bean Ravioli with Pumpkin Sauce

right|250px|White Bean Ravioli This is an interesting combination of one of my favorite Burmese dishes and ravioli. Italian food is very popular with Burmese people as many of the flavors are quite similar.

RCI-VG.004.1534.001

White Beans and Kale

White Beans and Kale from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.004.1535.001

White Bean Soup

Like Simplest Split Pea Soup, this makes the transition from simple to complex quite readily.

RCI-VG.004.1539.001

White Bean With Kale And Chorizo

This soup is a winter staple in our home. It is full of flavor and warmth you through and through.

RCI-RC.006.0149.001

Wild Rice and Mushrooms

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RCI-SP.001.0156.001

Wild Rice 'n' Ham Soup with Veggies

This soup goes well with a spinach salad and a loaf of crusty French bread. Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped parsley.

RCI-SF.003.0045.001

Willy's Hot Shrimp Ceviche

Willy's Hot Shrimp Ceviche from the Recidemia collection

RCI-MT.003.0106.001

Wine Braised Shortribs

Wine Braised Shortribs from the Recidemia collection

RCI-MT.004.0841.001

Wine-roasted Chicken and Rice Dressing

Makes 6 servings.

RCI-SP.003.0733.001

Winter Warm-up Soup

Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group * Source: Taste of H

RCI-SN.003.0301.001

Wisconsin Ackawi Cheese Triangles

make use of a specialty (ackawi) cheese.

RCI-RC.001.0236.001

Wolof Rice

Steak stew with rice

RCI-RC.001.0237.001

World Recipe Bulgur Pilaf

World Recipe Bulgur Pilaf from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SC.004.0054.001

World Recipe Gravy

World Recipe Gravy from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SN.001.0439.001

World Recipe Guacamole

Contributed by World Recipes Y-Group This Y-group is

RCI-MT.004.0844.001

World Recipes Barbecued Chicken

Contributed by World Recipes Y-Group This Y-group is

RCI-VG.005.0286.001

Wurstfest and Rice

Makes 6 servings.

RCI-SN.003.0303.001

Wurstsalat

Wurstsalat

Yakisoba
RCI-ND.005.0179.001

Yakisoba

Yakisoba

RCI-VG.003.0121.001

Yamburgers

Yamburgers from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SN.002.0309.001

Yamco

Yamco from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.001.0661.001

Yam Salad

Yam Salad from the Recidemia collection

RCI-MT.003.0107.001

Yellow split pea soup

Yellow split pea soup from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SP.003.0738.001

Yellow Split Pea Soup

Yellow Split Pea Soup from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.003.0122.001

Yellow Split Pea Stew

Yellow Split Pea Stew from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SP.003.0740.001

Yemen Fatah

Yemen Fatah from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.004.1549.001

Yemenite String Bean Soup

Yemenite String Bean Soup from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SP.003.0741.001

Y-group Chicken

Y-group Chicken from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SP.004.0336.001

Yogi's Bowl

When made in bulk, this chili can readily be frozen.

RCI-SC.003.0216.001

Yogurt Dill Dressing

Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group

RCI-RC.001.0241.001

Yuca's Vegetarian Paella

Yuca's Vegetarian Paella from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SN.002.0312.001

Yummy Tuna Cakes

Prep.

RCI-SP.004.0337.001

Zambian Chicken Stew

Zambian chicken stew. Serves 4 - 6.

RCI-VG.005.0287.001

Zapallitos Rellenos I

Stuffed zucchini Serves 4 to 6

RCI-VG.004.1557.001

Zardalu Polo

Persian lamb and apricot pilaf.

RCI-SP.003.0746.001

Zelenchukova Supa

Zelenchukova Supa from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.005.0288.001

Zelna Hlava Plnena

Stuffed Cabbage Head. Yet another I've pulled out of "The Czechoslovak Cookbook". Of course I had to add garlic to the recipe :) Also for a little extra kick you can use some spicy bloody Mary mix instead of the cream of tomato soup.

RCI-VG.001.0667.001

Zelnata Solata

Zelnata Solata from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SP.003.0747.001

Zemiakova Polievka

Zemiakova Polievka from the Recidemia collection

RCI-SC.003.0218.001

Zero Salad Dressing

Yield: ½ cup

RCI-RC.004.0324.001

Zesty Chicken and Rice

Makes 4 servings.

RCI-VG.001.0668.001

Zesty Orange Salad

Zesty Orange Salad from the Recidemia collection

RCI-MT.001.0308.001

Zhong Si Neu Niu

Steak fillet in tomato sauce

RCI-SP.003.0748.001

Zilzil Alecha

Zilzil Alecha from the Recidemia collection

RCI-VG.001.0669.001

Zippy Bean and Rice Salad

Makes 6 servings.

RCI-VG.004.1561.001

Zucchini and Chile Corn Bake

Makes 8 servings.

RCI-VG.004.1562.001

Zucchini Casserole

Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group * Source: Mrs. Ronal

RCI-PF.001.0032.001

Zucchini Relish I

Zucchini Relish I from the Recidemia collection