Onions & Their Use

Often we find recipes don’t always specify the onion type leaving us gazing at the grocery store onion bins.

Here’s a list of onions and suggested use:

Chives

Delicate and mild. Usually added raw to a prepared dish.

• Chopped Garnish
• Salads

Leeks

Mild and garlicky.

• Casseroles
• Pasta Dishes
• Risotto
• Salads
• Sautéed
• Soups
• Stews
• Vinaigrette

Red Onion (aka: Purple Onion)

Aromatic, mild and sweet.

• Fried Rice
• Guacamole
• Grilling
• Pickled Onions
• Pizza
• Salads
• Sandwiches

Scallions (aka: Green Onions)

Mild flavor.

• Chopped Garnish
• Deviled Eggs
• Dips
• Meat Dishes
• Potato Salad
• Sandwiches
• Soups
• Stews
• Stir Fried Vegetables

Shallots

Mild and sweet.

• Dressing
• Garnish
• Pies
• Salads
• Sauces
• Stock Blend
• Stir Fry
• Tarts

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Sweet Onions

Very sweet.

• Casseroles
• Chopped Garnish
• Dips
• Onion Rings
• Raw Salads
• Relishes
• Roasted Vegetables

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White Onion

Crunchy and sharp. Often used to add a sourness.

• Chutney’s
• Grilling
• Salads
• Salsa
• Sandwiches
• Stews
• Stir Frying

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Yellow Onion

Bold and holds up to heat which then becomes sweeter.

• Caramelizing
• Meat Dishes
• Roasting
• Sauces
• Soups
• Stews

Select onions release compound irritants which cause our eye glands to tear.

Tips to Avoid Onion Tears

• Chill in Ice Water for 30 – 60 Minutes
• Cut Underwater
• Freeze Before Use
• Wear Goggles