One of the secrets of mediterranean cuisine is onion : it goes into almost every dish, as basic or main ingredient, be it in sautés, stews, sauces, salads, soups, rice, meat or fish. Beyond that it is quite versatile, since it can be eaten raw, boiled, fried, roasted or pickled. It is true that not everybody appreciates the strong taste and odour, which are due to sulphur, one of its substances. Mas the nutritional value of onion advises you to continue reading this article and incorporate onion in your diet , disguising its presence if that would be an issue. Onion: Is a bulb (like garlic and leek) and is produced in Portugal almost all year around, from March to September. It may be of white, yellowish or red colour. It is highly nutritious and its consumption, integrated in a balanced diet, brings several benefits for health at many levels. Is a food of low energy value, rich in fibre, vitamins (C, E and B-complex), minerals (potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium), also containing significant amounts of iron. Belongs to the family of shallot, which has a milder and sweeter taste. The shape is also different: onion is a single round and large bulb, while shallot is curvier and grows in clusters, similar to garlic. Did you know that… When we cut an onion, an irritating gas is formed that is attracted by moist surfaces, like the eyes. That is why we cry when cutting an onion: to eliminate that irritating gas and protect our eyes. To prevent the gas from hitting the eyes, we can arrange an alternative moist surface, like a wet towel on the shoulder or over the breast or even sticking our tongue out. Putting the onion in the freezer for a while before peeling or cutting it, also limits the reaction caused by the cut and helps us avoid the tears. Sources Portuguese Association of Nutrition. The role of onion and tomato in mediterranean diet . Healthline. Onion benefits: nutrients, antioxidants, and cooking ideas. Nuno Maulide, Tanja Traxler. How to turn air into bread. This and other questions that only chemistry is able to respond. Lisbon; Planeta, 2021. Now discover an unusual recipe with onion, by our nutritionist Maria Inês Cardoso .
