red onion

Name: Red onion (Allium cepa) Flavour: Red onions have a mild to moderate taste with a slightly sweet and tangy flavor. They are less pungent compared to yellow or white onions and are often enjoyed raw in salads and sandwiches.

Growing Season: Red onions are typically grown as a biennial crop, but they are harvested in their first year. They are generally planted in the spring, around March or April, and harvested in late summer or early fall, depending on the specific variety and growing conditions.

Native Region: The red onion is believed to have originated in Asia, specifically in the Mediterranean region. It has been cultivated for centuries and is now grown in various parts of the world.

Traditional Recipe: Red onions are versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes. One traditional recipe that showcases the flavour of red onions is a classic red onion salad. Here's a simple recipe:

Red Onion Tart:

Ingredients:

For the pastry:

  • 225 grams plain flour

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 115 grams unsalted butter, cold and diced

  • 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the filling:

  • 3 large red onions, thinly sliced

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

  • 2 teaspoons soft brown sugar

  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

  • 115 grams crumbled goat cheese

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).

  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt for the pastry. Add the cold diced butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

  3. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in cling film, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

  4. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the sliced red onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until they become soft and slightly caramelised.

  5. Stir in the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the onions are well coated and the flavours are combined. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

  6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry to fit a tart tin. Transfer the rolled pastry to the tin, pressing it gently to line the bottom and sides.

  7. Spread the caramelised onion mixture evenly over the pastry. Sprinkle the crumbled goat cheese on top.

  8. Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and the cheese is melted and slightly browned.

  9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

  10. Once the tart has cooled slightly, carefully remove it from the tart tin and transfer it to a serving platter or cutting board.

Health Properties: Red onions, like other onions, contain several health-promoting properties. They are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants. The flavonoids and sulfur compounds found in red onions have been linked to potential anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and heart-healthy effects. Additionally, they may help regulate blood sugar levels and support digestive health.

Growing Technique: Red onions can be grown from sets (small bulbs), transplants, or seeds. They prefer well-draining soil and a sunny location. The soil pH should be around 6.0-7.5. Plant the sets or transplants about 1 inch deep and 3-4 inches apart, leaving the tips of the bulbs just above the soil surface. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Onions can be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer throughout the growing season. As the bulbs mature, the tops will start to yellow and fall over. Once this happens, you can harvest the onions and let them cure in a warm, dry location for a few weeks before storing them.