Onion - Fresh from the Garden

Behold the Onion. Vegetable of many layers. Heyyyy Olivia...

"Boo hoo hoo!"
"Don't cry, little girl. It'll be ok... Just as soon as you get some fresh air!"

Anyone who's ever cut up a particularly pungent onion can remember those watery eyes and may wonder why the onion ever made the cut into our modern food repertoire.

Boasting bulbs, leaves, and multiple colors, the onion pretty much has it all. And, despite its somewhat irritating pungency in the raw state, onions can be surprisingly sweet when cooked. They're also pretty healthy.

Onion varieties differ according to the sweetness vs. hotness of the flavor, bulb size, keeping potential, and the day length in which they thrive. Ask your farmer's market grower for advice on the best onion for your intended use.

"Ancient Egyptians regarded the onion as a symbol of eternal life. They were frequently included in tombs in the belief the odor could bring the dead back to life." — Edible: An Illustrated Guide to the World's Food Plants

Onions were used as a medicine in India as far back as 1500 years ago! An average onion is 89% water. What remains is a combination of dietary fiber and complex carbohydrates. A well-grown onion is a resource for Vitamin C, folate, choline, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium.

Like garlic, onion is reported to reduce blood cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure. It can also help to balance blood sugar levels. It has been historically used to relax the bronchial muscles (lungs) and has been studied in relation to stopping tumor growth.

Onion is generally regarded as having warming energy.

Please see your health provider for guidance on your own health program.

Onions are commonly eaten both raw and cooked. While onions can be eaten straight, they are much more commonly included, chopped, as an ingredient in another dish.

Chopped raw onion, especially the colorful and mild red onions or green onions, add flavor and interest to salads. Chopped onion can also be added to salsa, stir-fries, soups, stews, and sauces.

Onion — Try this: Chop fresh seasonal tomatoes, onions, and peppers. Add a little lemon juice, some chopped fresh cilantro, and a dash of salt. Mix for a quick fresh salsa!