Food
Know Your Onions: 6 Different Types And How To Use Them
By Odunmorayo Oke 08 June 2024 | 5:00 am Onions are food ingredients that can be found in every home cook’s kitchen. They come in different types, each with its own distinct colour, appearance, texture and flavour that can transform any dish. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of onions and how they can be used best in your cooking. Six… Yellow onions. Photo – Pixabay / PublicDomainPictures
Yellow onions, also known as brown onions, can be found in almost every kitchen. They are typically the best onions for all-around cooking. Although, not ideal for eating raw, they have a strong flavour that develops into a rich sweet taste after it is cooked. Furthermore, they can be used for meat roasts, braised meat dishes, sauces, soups, and stews.
READ ALSO: 6 Reasons Onions Should Be Part Of Your Everyday Meal
2. Red onions
White onions. Photo – Pixabay / Couleur
Compared to yellow onions, white onions have a more subtle flavour and less robust appearance. They will not make you cry when cutting them. White onions have the crunchiest and sharpest taste. They are a classic addition to Mexican dishes like salsa, guacamole, and pico de gallo-due due to their distinct but less overpowering flavour.
Also, they’re great to use as a base for pureed sauces and white pizzas. They are an excellent addition in salads and sandwiches for when you want an onion flavour without applying too much heat. Furthermore, they can be used in chutneys and stir-fries.
4. Sweet onions
Fresh green onions. Photo – Pixabay / Mike Goad
Farmers usually harvest green onions, also known as spring onions and scallions, prematurely before their bulb has fully formed. They have a long slender appearance a milder sweetness compared to fully formed onions.
Interestingly, they are popular in East Asian and Mediterranean cuisines. People use them as raw garnish in salads and salsas, and for cooking soups, noodle dishes, stir-fries, and omelettes.
6. Shallots
Leeks. Photo : Pixabay / Chris Keller
Although not technically onions, Leeks are part of the same family and they have a mild, onion-like taste. Appearance wise, they have long, white cylindrical stalks with dark green leaves. They’re often used in soups and paired with potatoes.
Lastly, they can also be braised to be used as a delicious side dish or sautéed to enhance the flavour of risottos and pizzas.
