White Onion

White onion is a vegetable that is round with a bright white bulb. It has an outer layer of a papery, thin skin and a white interior. White onions vary in size from medium to large sizes. It is also one of the most common and used vegetables throughout the globe. 

Varieties of Onions

There are a variety of onion varieties, from the sweet onion to red and green. The different varieties can range from tangy, sour, to sweet. Red, yellow, sweet, and white are the main types of onions.

Most common varieties of onions include:

  • White onion: great to eat raw and garnish.
  • Yellow onion: considered the best for cooking and roasting.
  • Red onion: nice option for grilling and for pickled onions.
  • Green onion: commonly used for garnishing and toppings.
  • Sweet onion: good choice for frying. 

White Onion Compared to Yellow Onion

Two of the most common types of onions are the white and yellow onions. White onions can often be compared to yellow onions because of their similarities, yet there are differences. White onions are more popular throughout Latin America, while yellow onions are among the most popular in the United States. White onions are a great alternative to yellow onions when it comes to adding mild flavor with a slightly sweet taste to dishes.

Similarities

Health Benefits: Both white and yellow onions are healthy onion choices. Both onion types contain nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Shape, Size, and Skin Texture: Both onions have similar appearances. Many white and yellow onions have similar bulb shapes and sizes. Both onion skins have layers of paper-thin skin.

Differences

Color: One of the main differences between the onions is the color. White onions are known exactly for their name. They are a bright white color compared to yellow onions that have a darker shade of a yellow brown tone.

Raw & Cooking: White onions are considered a nice raw onion option to add to salads or in salsas. On the contrary, yellow onions are great for cooked recipes. The flavor and texture make these onions a nice choice for cooking.

Flavor and texture: The flavor and texture are also distinctive differences. White onions have a milder flavor and are a bit softer compared to yellow onions. Yellow onions have a bold, strong flavor, which is not recommended for raw dishes. 



Health Benefits

Onions in general are known to be a healthy and nutritious vegetable. White onions contain vitamins and minerals. In addition, they help in the reduction of body inflammation. Other great health benefits include digestion and heart support. Overall, white onions have many benefits that make them a great onion choice to add to one’s diet.

Availability & Purchase

White onions are available throughout the year. They are easily accessible in major supermarkets across the states. These onions can be found fresh in the produce section in many stores. You can buy these onions in bags or as a single whole onion. Fresh produce is likely always found in farmers markets, which is another place to find white onions since they are available year-round in the states.

White onions are great additions to garden beds or gardens. These onion varieties are known to be simple to grow. Onions can be grown either from onion seeds or bulbs. When growing from seeds, white onion seeds can be found in online stores or in garden centers. 



Food & Drinks

White onions are a great onion option. These onions can be consumed either raw or cooked. These onions can be stir-fried, boiled, or roasted when cooked. They are also known as one of the best onions to enjoy eating raw without an unpleasant aftertaste compared to other onions.
  
Recipe Ideas
  • Creamy white onion soup
  • Marinated white onions
  • White onion sauce

Onion is a flavorful and versatile ingredient used in various culinary kitchens around the world. It is a common and popular vegetable ingredient incorporated into many different styles of cuisine. Many onion-based recipes can be found internationally.

Latin America

White onions are used in many international dishes. It is an international vegetable commonly used in Latin American cuisine. It is a key ingredient used in culinary kitchens across Central and South America. They are fresh tasting and great for raw salsa dishes. The white onion tends to have a milder flavor and crunchy texture that is excellent to garnish over dishes such as tacos.

Mexico

In Mexico, white onions are a common onion found throughout the country. In Mexican cuisine, white onion is a common and key ingredient used in various and numerous dishes. Many authentic Mexican recipes often call for white onions in their dishes. This is to add a milder taste, a nice crunch, and to garnish over a dish. Raw diced onions are frequently used in traditional Mexican tacos. It is also used to make tomato jalapeno salsa, tomatillo salsa verde (green salsa), and guacamole. In addition to salsas, diced raw onions can be added to Mexican stew dishes such as pozole, enchiladas soups, and tortilla soups.


White onion Mexican recipes

  • Traditional Mexican Guacamole
  • Pico de gallo (Mexican salsa)
  • Mexican pickled white onions

Pickling

When it comes to pickling onions, red onions are a common option. White onions can be great for pickling. It is a nice alternative to red onions as well. Pickled white onions are tasty in sandwiches and wraps. They also provide a nice-flavored grilled dish.

Summary

White onions are a great versatile ingredient used throughout Latin America and other regions of the world, such as in Asia. Besides green onions, white onion is one of my favorite onions to use as a garnish over the various Latin dishes I prepare. The lightly sweet flavor of these onions makes them a great onion choice for delicious dishes and as an ideal garnish.

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