The market for onions keeps going up and down, and this leads to their often being overbought in order to store them for future use. However, what most people don’t realise is that onion is such a vegetable that it cannot be kept fresh for a long period of time. Thus, to minimise wastage and utilise the vegetables without spoiling them, here are seven dishes you might want to explore.
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From the pungent bite of raw onions in salads to the sweet caramelised richness they bring to soups and stews, onions offer a spectrum of flavours that can elevate any dish. Their ability to impart depth and complexity to recipes is unparalleled, making them a staple in kitchens everywhere. Thus, when purchased in bulk, you can always find different ways to utilise them.
Onion Rings
These battered and fried delights not only utilise your onions but add up to a delicious snacking experience. The dish features thick slices of onion coated in a seasoned batter and plunged into hot oil until they emerge crunchy on the outside yet tender within. The subtle sweetness of caramelised onion melds with the savoury crunch of the coating, creating a symphony of flavours and textures that make onion rings an irresistible treat.
Pyaaz Pakode
Pyaaz pakode or crispy onion fritters, are a culinary dish that will use up all your surplus onions. These savoury delights showcase the versatility of onions, transforming them into a crispy indulgence. Sliced onions are enveloped in a spiced gram flour batter and seasoned with cumin, chilli, and coriander for a burst of flavour. When fried to golden perfection, they offer a delightful crunch on the outside, while the onions inside turn tender and flavorful. Pyaaz pakode serves as a comforting snack, often paired with mint chutney or a cup of masala chai.
Onion Soup
Onion soup is a comforting classic, perfect for utilising excess onions. Its simplicity belies its depth of flavour; the sweet caramelised onions, simmered in a rich broth until tender, create a robust base. A touch of thyme adds earthiness, while a splash of sherry or white wine provides depth. Topped with a slice of toasted baguette and melted gruyère cheese, each spoonful offers a harmonious blend of savoury and sweet with a luxuriously smooth texture.
French Onion Dip
Featuring a creamy base of sour cream or mayonnaise, it blends caramelised onions for a rich, savoury flavour profile. The onions, slowly cooked to a golden hue, impart a sweet depth balanced by the tang of the dairy. The addition of green from chives or parsley adds freshness. Texturally, it's smooth with occasional bursts of soft onion, which perfectly goes with nacho or homemade chips.
Lachha Pyaaz
Thinly sliced onions, bathed in tangy lemon juice, are interspersed with zesty green chillies and vibrant coriander leaves. The interplay of sweet and sharp flavours harmonises beautifully, while a dash of chaat masala adds a tantalising twist. The texture is crisp and refreshing, offering a satisfying crunch with each bite. This is a refreshing addition to main courses, giving a tangy and fresh flavour to the tastebuds.
Onion Frittata
Thinly sliced onions, caramelised to golden perfection, infuse every bite with sweet undertones. Combined with eggs, herbs, and cheese, they create a harmonious blend of flavours. The creamy texture of eggs melds with the tender onions, while a crispy edge adds delightful contrast. Whether for brunch or dinner, this frittata elevates surplus onions into a culinary delight, proving that simplicity can be utterly delicious.
Also read, Are Red Onions Healthier Than White Onions?
Pyaaz Raita
Made by mixing finely chopped onions with creamy yoghurt, it boasts a refreshing tanginess that complements spicy main courses. The onions give a crunchy texture, while the yoghurt provides a cool, smooth base. Seasoned with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and a hint of chilli powder, pyaaz raita bursts with savoury flavours. Its versatility makes it an excellent accompaniment to biryanis, kebabs, or simply as a dip with crispy papadums.