Onion
“It doesn’t matter how precisely the onion is cut as long as the person chewing it is happy.”
FACTS
Ancient Cultivation: Onions have been cultivated for over 5,000 years and are believed to have originated in central Asia. They were even worshipped by the ancient Egyptians, who considered them a symbol of eternity.
Varieties: There are many different varieties of onions, ranging in size, shape, and flavor. Some popular types include yellow onions, red onions, white onions, and sweet onions such as Vidalia onions.
Tear-Inducing Compound: Onions contain a sulfur compound called syn-propanethial-S-oxide. When you cut an onion, it releases this compound, which irritates the eyes and causes them to tear up. Chilling the onion before cutting can help reduce the release of this compound.
Nutritional Value: Onions are low in calories but packed with nutrients. They are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber. They also contain antioxidants and various minerals like potassium and folate.
Culinary Versatility: Onions are a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world. They are used in a wide variety of dishes, including soups, stews, stir-fries, salads, and sauces. They can be consumed raw, cooked, caramelized, or pickled.
Health Benefits: Onions have several health benefits. They have anti-inflammatory properties, may help lower cholesterol levels, and may contribute to heart health. They also contain compounds that have antibacterial properties.
Long Shelf Life: Onions have a relatively long shelf life compared to many other vegetables. When stored properly in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, they can last for several weeks or even months.
Symbolism and Folklore: Onions have been associated with various symbolic meanings and folklore throughout history. They have been seen as a symbol of strength, endurance, and protection. In some cultures, onions were even believed to ward off evil spirits or have healing properties.
Onion Rings: The popular deep-fried snack known as onion rings is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. They are made by dipping sliced onions in batter and frying them until crispy.
World Production: Onions are one of the most widely cultivated vegetables globally. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), over 105 million metric tons of onions were produced worldwide in 2019. The top onion-producing countries include China, India, the United States, and Russia.
These facts highlight the rich history, culinary importance, and nutritional value of onions. Whether you love them or not, there's no denying their significant presence in our lives.
GARDENING TIPS
Visit our “How to use” section to learn how you can apply Biofeed to the onions, helping in the growing process, feeding and assisting the immune system.
Choosing Onion Varieties: Select onion varieties suitable for your climate and preferred taste. Some popular varieties include Yellow Sweet Spanish, Red Burgundy, White Lisbon, and Walla Walla.
Soil Preparation: Onions prefer well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Prepare the soil by adding organic matter, such as compost or vermicompost, to improve its fertility and drainage.
Planting Time: Onions can be grown from seeds, sets (small bulbs), or transplants. The planting time depends on the type of onion and your location. Generally, onions can be planted in early spring or fall, depending on your climate.
Spacing: Follow the recommended spacing guidelines for your onion variety. Typically, onions should be spaced 10-15cm apart in rows, with rows spaced about 30-45cm apart. Proper spacing allows for adequate air circulation and bulb development.
Planting Depth: When planting onion sets or transplants, place them in the soil at a depth of about 3cm. If planting from seeds, sprinkle them on the soil surface and cover lightly with a thin layer of soil.
Watering: Onions require consistent moisture, especially during bulb development. Water the plants regularly, aiming for about 3cm of water per week. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to rotting.
Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, around the onion plants. Mulching helps conserve moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature.
Fertilisation: Onions benefit from regular fertilisation. Apply our compost tea once a week during the growing season. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it may result in lush foliage but smaller bulbs.
Weed Control: Keep the onion bed free from weeds, as they compete for nutrients and water. Regularly remove weeds by hand or use mulch to suppress their growth.
Harvesting: Harvest onions when the foliage begins to turn yellow and topple over. Gently loosen the soil around the bulbs and lift them out. Allow the onions to cure by drying them in a well-ventilated area with good air circulation. Once the outer skins are dry and papery, trim the foliage and store the onions in a cool, dry place.
Remember to check the specific growing recommendations for the onion variety you choose, as some varieties may have specific requirements. Happy gardening!
Cooking ideas
by chef Santiago De Filippo
Caramelised Onions: Slowly cook sliced onions in butter or oil until they turn golden brown and sweet. Use them as a topping for burgers, sandwiches, pizzas, or as a base for soups and sauces.
French Onion Soup: Create a rich and hearty soup by simmering sliced onions in beef or vegetable stock, then topping with toasted bread and melted cheese.
Stir-Fries: Add sliced onions to your favourite stir-fry recipe along with other vegetables and protein sources for added flavour and texture.
Onion Rings: Dip onion rings in a batter and deep fry until crispy. They make a delicious appetizer or side dish.
Sautéed Onions: Quickly sauté onions in a pan with butter or oil until they're soft and slightly caramelized. These can be added to pasta dishes, omelettes, sandwiches, and more.
Onion Jam: Cook onions with sugar and vinegar until they turn into a sweet and savoury jam. Serve it with cheeses, charcuterie, or as a condiment.
Grilled Onions: Brush whole or halved onions with oil and grill until tender and slightly charred. Serve them as a side dish or add to burgers and sandwiches.
Onion “Kiwi” Dip: Place the 250ml of reduced fat cooking cream, 1 pack instant onion soup and 1 tablespoon of vinegar in a bowl and mix well to combine. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
Indian Curries: Onions are a key ingredient in many Indian curries. Sauté them with spices to create a flavourful base for dishes like chicken curry or vegetable masala.
Fajitas: Sauté sliced onions along with bell peppers and your choice of protein for tasty fajitas.
Onion-Stuffed Meats: Create a stuffing mixture with onions, herbs, breadcrumbs, and spices to stuff inside meats like chicken breasts or pork chops.
Quiche: Add sautéed onions to your quiche filling for extra flavour and texture.
Salads: Include raw or pickled red onions in salads to add a tangy and colourful element.
Onion Relish: Dice onions finely and mix with herbs, vinegar, and spices to make a relish that goes well with grilled meats, sausages, and sandwiches.
Pasta Sauces: Sauté onions as a base for pasta sauces, such as marinara or Bolognese.
Mexican Salsas: Combine finely chopped onions with tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, and spices to make a delicious salsa for tacos and nachos.
Onion Tarts: Create savoury tarts with a base of caramelized onions and cheese on a pastry crust.
Roasted Vegetables: Roast onions along with other vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers for a tasty side dish.
Onion Garnish: Use thinly sliced green onions as a garnish for soups, salads, rice dishes, and more.
Pickled Onions: Make quick-pickled red onions to add a tangy and colourful element to various dishes.