White Onions

White onions are vegetables that are round, bright white bulbs. It has an outer layer of a papery, thin skin with a white interior. White onions vary in size from medium to large sizes. There are a variety of onions, 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. White onions are popular in Latin America, while yellow onions are among the most popular in the United States.

Origins & Cultivation

White onions are likely native to the Central Asian region. Various regions of Asia cultivate white onions, including India and Japan. In the United States, white onions are cultivated in various states, such as California, where there is a large production of onions; other smaller productions include New Mexico and Texas. White onions are available throughout the entire year through the states. 

Climate & Planting

White onions can tolerate a variety of climates as they are cool-seasoned crops. They do well in temperate climates that are not too cold or hot. Onions require full sun. They grow best in sunny spots. Shade is not recommended for white onions, as they grow best in full sun. 

Onions can be grown from onion seeds or bulbs. Planting onions in the ground or raised beds are options for onion planting. Planting and growing onions in raised garden beds is a great option. Space the onions a few inches apart in the beds. For the ground planting, space the onions a few inches apart and in well-drained soil. 

Food & Drinks

Onions are a common and popular vegetable ingredient incorporated into many different styles of cuisine. White onions have a milder flavor and are a bit softer compared to yellow onions. It is also a great alternative to yellow onions. They are great to include in salsas and pasta salads. White onions can be consumed either raw or cooked. Raw onions are crunchy and excellent for many dishes, such as soups and stews. There are various ways to cook onions; a few ways include boiling, sautéing, and grilling. 

Many onion-based recipes can be found internationally. White onions are used in many international dishes. It is an international vegetable commonly used in Latin American cuisine. The white onion tends to have a milder flavor and crunchy texture that is excellent to garnish over dishes such as tacos.

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 dishes. Many Mexican recipes use white onions in their dishes. Raw diced onions are frequently used in tacos. It is also used to make tomato jalapeno salsa, tomatillo salsa verde (green salsa), and guacamole. In addition to salas, diced raw onions can be added to Mexican stew dishes such as pozole, enchilada soups, and tortilla soups.  

Recipe Ideas

International Recipes

• Indian onion chutney (India)
• Pico de gallo (Mexico)
• Onion and tomato manakeeh (Lebanon) 

Recipes 

• Creamy white onion soup
• Mushroom & onion grilled cheese sandwiches
• Onion burger
• Onion pie
• Onion relish 
• Caramelized onions
• Sauteed onions
• White onion sauce