With the support of our stable Hungarian producer base, this vegetable is always available in high quality in our wholesale assortment – ask us for an offer!
Not only does the purple onion stand out from other vegetables with its eye-catching colour, but also with its unique, slightly sweet taste. This versatile vegetable is an essential part of European cuisine, adding freshness and a special character to many dishes.
How to choose the best red onion?
Choosing the right red onion is key to getting the most out of this delicious vegetable. When buying, consider the following points:
- Appearance: the onions should have a smooth, shiny skin and no bruises or soft spots. Intact skin ensures longer shelf life.
- Colour: Fresh purple onions have a deep, bright purple hue. A dull or mottled colour may be a sign of ageing.
- Texture: good quality onions are firm to the touch and should not contain soft parts or mould.
Red onion in the kitchen – ideas for use
Red onions are extremely versatile and can be added to almost any dish to enrich its flavour. Here are some popular uses:
- In fresh salads: red onions are also excellent raw, with a slightly crunchy texture and sweet taste. Perfect for green salads, tomato dishes or Greek salads.
- For marinades and dressings: finely sliced or chopped, it adds fresh flavour to marinades and dressings.
- Grilled: grilling caramelises the red onion, giving it a sweet, intense flavour. An excellent accompaniment to meat and fish.
- In soups: red onions add a special colour and flavour to cream soups and onion soups.
- For decoration: its bright colour can be used to enhance many dishes, whether sandwiches, platters or main courses.
How to store red onions?
With proper storage, red onions retain their freshness and flavour for a long time. Follow the storage tips below:
- Keep in a cool, dry place: keep the purple onions in a well-ventilated place, such as a basket or mesh bag. Avoid a humid environment as this can cause rot.
- Away from other vegetables: onions can emit gases that can stimulate the germination of other vegetables, such as potatoes.
- Refrigerator cut only: Once the onions have been cut, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to avoid spreading a strong onion smell.
Interesting facts about the red onion
- Nutritional value: red onions are rich in antioxidants, especially anthocyanins, which give them their bright colour. These antioxidants can help strengthen the body’s defences.
- Origin: The red onion originated in Asia and spread from there to the rest of the world. In European cuisine, it is mainly used in Mediterranean and Central European dishes.
- Easier to peel: If you find it difficult to remove the skin, soak the onion in lukewarm water for a few minutes – it will peel much easier.
Tips for using red onion
- To reduce the sharp taste: if you find the taste of the onion too strong when raw, soak it in cold water or slightly vinegar for a few minutes after slicing. This will reduce its intensity.
- Health benefits: regular consumption of red onions can help maintain cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol and reducing inflammation.
- Pairing: it pairs well with balsamic vinegar, olive oil, fresh herbs such as basil and parsley.
Why choose red onions?
As well as being delicious, red onions are also extremely healthy. It is a perfect addition to many dishes and its versatility makes it a great addition to any kitchen. In addition, its beautiful colour enhances the appearance of your dishes.