Ingredients in season in spring: Introducing new onions and simple recommended recipes

The charm of new onions that announce the arrival of spring

New onions, which begin to be in store in spring, are ingredients that stand out for their freshness and sweetness. Compared to regular onions, it is less spicy and is easier to eat raw. The soft texture and unique flavor add color to a variety of dishes.

Here we will introduce the charms of new onions, while in the second half we will introduce a recipe that combines thick eggplant, new onions, and chicken, using seasonings other than ponzu. In addition, we will also touch on the roots of the new onions and the history of the onions themselves, so please enjoy it until the end.

Differences between new onions and general onions

New onions are harvested earlier than regular onions. This keeps the skin thin and fresh, and its whitish appearance stands out. Even when eaten raw, it is less spicy and has a sweet and soft texture that is unique to new onions. On the other hand, general onions are often stored for a long time, and the skin is thoroughly dry, making them more spicy. Using different dishes according to your cooking method and eating method will expand your range of dishes.

Table: Comparison of main characteristics of new and common onions

Onion roots and history

Onions are said to have been cultivated all over the world since ancient times. Originally, wild species were discovered in Central Asia and the Middle East, and have been passed down to various places over the long history. It is said to have been introduced to Japan from overseas, and at first it was eaten only by a limited number of regions and upper classes, but it later spread throughout the country and has become an indispensable vegetable on our table, just like it is today.

The origin of new onions and their introduction to Japan

Onions, commonly available in Japan, are outpatient vegetables that have originally arrived from overseas. The younger harvest in the warm seasons has resulted in new onions that are softer and more sweet. Many people love the unique flavor of new onions, which can only be enjoyed in the short period of early spring.

The charm of a refreshing recipe made with eggplant, new onions and chicken

When you combine new onions, a spring ingredient, with eggplant and chicken thighs, you can enjoy the sweetness, richness, and a moderate amount of volume at the same time. The key to eggplant is that it is easy to absorb oil and brings out the thick texture. On the other hand, chicken thighs have a strong flavor that accentuates the flavor.

This time, we will introduce a recipe that uses seasonings other than ponzu to create a refreshing finish. By using ginger and garlic when the seasoning is carried out, and making it easy to use as a side dish for lunch boxes and pre-made dishes, this dish can be enjoyed in a variety of situations.

Why use seasonings other than ponzu?

Ponzu is a convenient seasoning that allows you to enjoy the sourness of citrus fruits and the flavor of soy sauce at the same time, but for those who want to have a more mellow taste, we recommend arranging it with a seasoning other than ponzu. By combining sourness from vinegar and lemon juice with soy sauce and mirin, you can create a simple and refreshing taste like ponzu.

A refreshing recipe of melted eggplant, new onions and chicken

Now, we'd like to introduce you to a recipe that will make you fully enjoy the new spring onions. While originally using recipes using ponzu, this time we will create a refreshing flavor with seasonings other than ponzu. By seasoning chicken with ginger and garlic, you can achieve a rich finish.

Ingredients (for 4 people)

Ingredients (for 4 people)

• Chicken thighs... 2 pieces (approx. 500g)
• New onion... 1 piece (large)
• Eggplant... 2 bottles
• Ginger (grated)... 1 tsp
• Garlic (grated)... 1 tsp
• Alcohol... 2 tablespoons
• Soy sauce...2 tablespoons
• Vinegar... 1 tablespoon
• Mirin... 1 tablespoon
• Sugar... 1 tsp (if you want to add sweetness)
• Salt and pepper...appropriate amount
• Oil... Approximate amount (for frying eggplant)

* Add lemon juice at the end if you like to enjoy a refreshing sour taste.

How to make it

1. Add a seasoning
   • Remove excess fat from the chicken thighs and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
   • Combine ginger, garlic, sake, soy sauce, mirin, and vinegar in a bowl. If you want to add some sweetness, add sugar as well.
   • Place the chicken in a bowl and lightly massage it with your hands to blend in the flavor. It's OK to put it in a sealed bag.
   • Leave in the fridge for about 30 minutes to an hour to bring out the flavor even more.
   • Key Point : The chicken marinated here can also be frozen. The shelf life is approximately 3-4 weeks.
2. Vegetable preparation
   • Peel the new onions and slice them into thin or combed pieces. If you want to make the most of the crunchy texture of the new onion, you can cut it thickly.
   • Remove the eggplant from the stem and cut into bite-sized pieces. Soak it in water to remove any scum and then drain thoroughly.
3. Fry the eggplant
   • Add oil to a frying pan and heat over medium heat.
   • Add the eggplant and fry until the surface is soft. It absorbs oil well, so if it's not enough, add small amounts and stir-fry.
   • Once the eggplant is cooked and the texture is thick, remove it on a plate.
4. Grill the chicken
   • Place the seasoned chicken in the same frying pan and grill it over medium heat.
   • When baking from the skin, the key is to first use a strong fire to make the skin crisp.
   • Once both sides are browned, if the frying pan is very oily or burnt, lightly wipe it off with kitchen paper or something similar.
5. Pair it with vegetables
   • Once the chicken is almost cooked, add the new onions. Lightly stir-fry and when the new onions start to soften a little, put the eggplant you just removed in place.
   • Stir the whole thing over it, cook it, and adjust the flavor with salt and pepper if necessary.
   • If you want to add lemon juice to your liking, just before turning off the heat and mix it quickly to create a refreshing sour taste.
6. Serving
   • Place chicken and vegetables in a bowl and enjoy while it is hot.
   • If you put it in your lunch box, let it cool thoroughly before stuffing it to blend in and make it even tastier.

The presence of new onions that will add color to the recipe

This recipe accents the sweetness and crisp texture of the new onion. The appeal of this product is that it combines the thick texture of the eggplant and the juicy chicken with the texture of the chicken to change the texture. Unlike when used for stews or soups, the key is that by stir-frying, you can retain the right amount of chewiness of the new onion while bringing out the sweetness.

Furthermore, the refreshing seasoning is perfect for the spring and summer seasons. It is a dish that is easy to eat even on hot days, and it will stimulate your appetite.

Development of onion cuisine and culture originating from overseas

Onion-based dishes are available all over the world, and their origins and history are diverse. As mentioned in this article, side dishes that are combined with chicken and eggplants can be found in similar cooking methods not only in Japan but also overseas. The simple process of adding oils and seasonings and frying has developed within a wide range of cultures, including Western, Chinese and ethnic dishes.

In fact, onions were introduced to Japan only after interactions with overseas countries became more active. The culture of meat dishes using onion was adopted and the original arrangements have led to a variety of recipes that have emerged as they are today. The recipes introduced this time can be said to be an example of a recipe that was originally created for Japan, based on cooking methods that originated overseas.

Tips and how to store new onions

New onions are fresh and easily damaged, so if you pay a little attention to how you store them, they will last longer. It is useful to keep the following points in mind:

Tips for keeping new onions delicious

1. Store in a cool, dark place
   . The outer skin is soft, so place it in a place that is low in humidity and away from direct sunlight. It is recommended to store it in the vegetable compartment of the refrigerator during high temperatures and humid seasons.
2. wrapped in newspaper or paper
   are easily damaged if they come into direct contact with each other, so it is a good idea to wrap them one by one in newspaper or something before storing.
3. Use up quickly
   as a regular onion, so use up quickly. To make the most of your freshness, it is recommended to enjoy it raw or cooked during the spring to early summer.

How to use new onion variations

New onions are a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed not only in stir-fried dishes but also in raw dishes. Here we will introduce some ideas to use.

Eat raw

• salad
  sliced ​​onions in water to remove the spiciness and pour them on your favorite dressing to enjoy a fresh texture. It goes great with tuna and seaweed.
• the savory
  bonito flakes or plum meat and mix it with a quick look and create a perfect dish as a palate break.

For soups and stews

• miso soup
  makes the sweeter taste stronger, so the new onions are also excellent as ingredients for miso soup. Even in a short period of time, the finish is soft and the sweetness spreads gently.
• Western-style soup
  bouillon or consomme soup to create a thick texture in a short amount of time. To finish off, remove a little butter to add more flavor.

Onion food culture that has spread since its origin

Onions have been cultivated all over the world since ancient times and have been used in a variety of dishes. Ancient Egyptian murals also feature onions-like crops, which are said to have been one of the objects of worship. It was also widely recognized as a valuable food in Europe during the war era and as a nutritional source (though we will not provide details on nutritional value in this article).

As onions from overseas have been introduced to Japan in this way, various cooking methods have developed to suit the local food culture and climate. Onions are used as a common occurrence these days, but they are actually one of the vegetables that has been influenced by overseas culture.

Enjoy new onions that can only be enjoyed in spring

Due to its unique sweetness and tenderness, new onions are popular as seasonal bounty that can only be enjoyed in early spring. It's quite tasty when used in simple dishes, but by combining it with chicken or eggplant, like in this article, you can create a refreshing yet rich side dish.

Additionally, new onions vary in flavor and softness depending on the production area and variety. If you have the opportunity, try new onions from various regions and find your favorite flavor.

Summary: A repertoire spreading with new onions, chicken and eggplant

• The charm of new onions
  is fresh and tender, so they are delicious whether raw or cooked. It has a strong sweetness and can be used in a variety of cooking methods.
• History of Onions
  It has been cultivated all over the world since ancient times, and is a vegetable that has been brought to Japan from overseas. It has developed into an indispensable part of the dining table.
• Eggplant and chicken
  The thick texture of the eggplant and the juicy chicken thighs go well with the sweet new onions. This dish is made with a refreshing seasoning that gives it a rich flavor.
• Points to keep and use up
  New onions are easily damaged, so wrap them one by one and keep them in a cool, dark place or in a fridge. It is not suitable for long-term storage, so it is recommended to use it up early.

New onions, available during the limited spring season, are valuable ingredients that bring us the unique flavors of the season. Please use the recipes and cooking methods introduced this time to fully enjoy the sweetness and softness of the new onions. You can taste it raw or stir-fried it to bring out the melty texture. Even simple cooking should give you a strong sense of its appeal.

This dish, born from a fusion of onion culture that has been passed down from overseas and food culture that has developed uniquely in Japan, will be a great help in increasing the variety of dishes you can make to your dining table. Please make full use of this as a side dish for rice or a side dish for lunch boxes. By enjoying the new onions that are unique to spring, we hope you will be able to enjoy the richness of enjoying your meal while feeling the changing seasons.