Which Onions to Use When Cooking

Onions are a staple in many cuisines around the world and are a versatile ingredient that can add flavor, texture, and nutrition to a wide range of dishes. There are many different types of onions, each with their own unique flavors, textures, and appearances.

1. Yellow onion

This is the most common type of onion. It’s often used as a base for soups, stews, and braises, as well as in various other dishes. Yellow onions are excellent for caramelizing. But they can have a strong flavor when eaten raw.

2. White onion

This type of onion is crisper and milder in flavor than yellow onions and is often used in Mexican cuisine. It is also a good choice for pickling. The main drawback of white onions is that they can’t be stored for too long.

3. Red onion

This type of onion is known for its reddish-purple skin. The spicy-to-mild flavor makes it the ideal variety for eating raw. Red onion is often used in salads and salsas. It works well in sandwiches or juicy burgers, as well as in grilled dishes.

4. Pearl onion

This type of onion is small, round, and has a sweet and mild flavor. Pearl onions are delicious when eaten whole. They’re often roasted, pickled, or cooked in dishes like stews and braises.

5. Shallot

This type of onion is smaller and more slender than other onions. Shallots are more delicate, they’re sweeter, and they have a hint of garlic flavor. They can be eaten both raw or cooked. This onion is easy to roast to melt-in-your-mouth perfection. It’s also often used in French cuisine and is a key ingredient in many sauces and vinaigrettes.

6. Sweet onion

This type of onion has a high water content. Sweet onion is mild, sweet, and crispy. It’s good for eating raw. But most often, it’s used in the cooking of fried onion rings.

7. Leek

This type is related to the onion but has a milder, sweeter flavor. The younger the leek, the more delicate its flavor and texture. These are preferred for eating raw. Leeks also can be boiled, braised, fried, sautéed in butter or olive oil, roasted, or caramelized. They’re often used in soups, casseroles, and white meat entrées.

8. Scallion

This type of onion is also known as the green onion and has a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It is often used as a garnish or in salads. It’s a popular ingredient in many Asian recipes. Diced scallions are used in soup, stews, steamed fish and noodle dishes, and as part of a stir fry.

Whether you are cooking a simple dish or a complex meal, onions are an important ingredient that can add flavor and nutrition to your dishes. What type of onion do you use most often in cooking? Share your favorite recipe with onions in the comments!