The hidden charm of onions and recommended recipes: A versatile vegetable that elevates everyday seasonings

Onions are an essential ingredient in the culinary world due to their versatility and ease of use. However, few people know much about their history, characteristics, and how to use them. In this article, we'll explore the appeal of onions in detail and introduce some recommended recipes

History and types of onions

It is said that onions became widely popular in Japan during the Showa era. Although there are now more imported onions, the most common onions in Japan are spicy yellow ones. Some are shipped immediately as new onions. There are also purple onions, which have a reddish-purple outer skin, and sweet white onions, each suitable for different dishes

Seasonality and how to choose

Onions are a convenient ingredient that can be purchased all year round, although the harvest season varies depending on the region. New onions, in particular, appear on the market in the spring. Since new onions lose their flavor quickly, it is recommended to purchase them according to the amount you will use

Ingredients and Properties

The distinctive smell and sweetness of onions come from allyl sulfide, which also contains substances that can be irritating to the eyes, so care should be taken when cooking with onions

How to use onions

Onions are used in a variety of dishes, including stews, stir-fries, and salads. They are particularly popular in Western cuisine and are also effective at eliminating odors

Recommended Recipes

For stews, small onions about 3cm in diameter are best. White onions are sweet and mild, so they are good for stews and soups. Purple onions are less spicy and are perfect for salads

Purple Onion Salad: A colorful and flavorful dish

Purple onions are one of the most beautiful types of onions. Why not try making a Japanese-style salad using these vibrant purple onions? The texture of the onions, along with the addition of kaiwarena (spiny greens) and dried small sardines, topped with a Japanese-style dressing will add a touch of elegance to your dinner table

Ingredients (4 servings, approximately 70kcal)

• 1 purple onion
• Kaiwarena: appropriate amount
• Dried small sardines: 20g

Japanese dressing

• Dashi: 2 tablespoons
• 2 tablespoons of vinegar
• Soy sauce: 2 teaspoons
• Sugar: 2 teaspoons
• Salt and pepper: a little each
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

procedure

1. Preparing the red onion:
   Cut the red onion in half lengthwise, then slice it thinly into crescent shapes. Soak the sliced ​​onion in water for about 5 minutes to remove the bitterness.
2. Preparing radish sprouts:
   Cut off the roots of the radish sprouts, soak them in water, and drain thoroughly.
3. Preparing
   the dried sardines: Quickly pour boiling water over the dried sardines and drain the water.
4. To make the Japanese-style dressing,
   mix the dressing ingredients well.
5. The Japanese-style salad
   is complete! Drain the red onion and radish sprouts thoroughly, add the dried sardines, pour the Japanese-style dressing over them and mix well.

This Japanese-style salad is an exquisite match of the vibrant color of purple onions and the texture of kaiwarena (spiny leaf lettuce) and dried small sardines. The Japanese-style dressing is easy to make, making it perfect for everyday meals or as a dish to serve to guests. Please give it a try

summary

Onions come in a wide variety of varieties, uses, and ingredients, making them a versatile ingredient that can be easily incorporated into any dish. One onion can broaden the range of dishes you can make. With new onions in season, why not try to feel the spring with dishes that make use of their flavor? Use the knowledge you've learned today to try a new recipe using onions

Introducing our special recipes for epi recipes

Fukinoto and spring vegetable pasta

This pasta dish uses plenty of spring vegetables. Deep-fried butterbur sprouts are convenient and can be used as a topping for a variety of dishes

Fukinoto and spring vegetable pasta

This pasta dish uses plenty of spring vegetables. Deep-fried butterbur sprouts are convenient and can be used as a topping for a variety of dishes

Fukinoto and spring vegetable pasta

This pasta dish uses plenty of spring vegetables. Deep-fried butterbur sprouts are convenient and can be used as a topping for a variety of dishes

Fukinoto and spring vegetable pasta

This pasta dish uses plenty of spring vegetables. Deep-fried butterbur sprouts are convenient and can be used as a topping for a variety of dishes

Fukinoto and spring vegetable pasta

This pasta dish uses plenty of spring vegetables. Deep-fried butterbur sprouts are convenient and can be used as a topping for a variety of dishes

Fukinoto and spring vegetable pasta

This pasta dish uses plenty of spring vegetables. Deep-fried butterbur sprouts are convenient and can be used as a topping for a variety of dishes