What are White Onions

White onions are a kind of onion that have a milder, more straightforward flavor compared to yellow onions, but still pack a bit of heat. Their outer skin is thin and papery, almost like tissue, and inside they’re crisp and juicy. When you cut them, they tend to release more moisture, which is why they can make your eyes tear up a bit faster. They’re often used raw in salads, salsas, or sandwiches because they don’t overpower the dish as much as other onions do. If you cook them, they get sweeter but still hold onto their slight bite.
Other Names of White Onions
Here are a few other names white onions might go by:
- Spanish onions – Some people refer to white onions as Spanish onions, though this term can also apply to other types of onions.
- Blanco onions – In Spanish, “blanco” means white, so sometimes folks just use the Spanish word for them.
- Silver onions – This name comes from their shiny, pale skin that can look kind of silvery.
- Mild onions – Since they have a milder flavor compared to other onions, especially yellow ones, some just call them mild onions.
- Fresh market onions – In certain regions, white onions are often called this because they’re sold fresh, not stored for long like some other types.
Nutritional Value of White Onions
Here’s a general overview of the nutritional value of white onions per 100 grams:
Nutrient | Amount per 100g |
---|---|
Calories | 40 kcal |
Water | 89.11 g |
Protein | 1.1 g |
Carbohydrates | 9.34 g |
Sugars | 4.7 g |
Dietary Fiber | 1.7 g |
Fat | 0.1 g |
Vitamin C | 7.4 mg |
Vitamin B6 | 0.12 mg |
Folate (B9) | 19 mcg |
Potassium | 146 mg |
Phosphorus | 29 mg |
Magnesium | 10 mg |
Calcium | 23 mg |
Iron | 0.21 mg |
Zinc | 0.17 mg |
Manganese | 0.13 mg |
Selenium | 0.4 mcg |
Benefits of White Onions
Here are some benefits of white onions:
- Rich in vitamins and minerals – White onions are packed with vitamin C, B vitamins, and minerals like potassium, which help keep your body functioning properly.
- Boosts immune system – Thanks to their high antioxidant content, white onions can help support your immune system and fight off infections.
- Good for digestion – They contain fiber, which helps keep things moving smoothly in your digestive system and prevents constipation.
- Heart health – White onions have compounds that may reduce blood pressure and cholesterol, helping to keep your heart in good shape.
- Low in calories – If you’re looking to keep your meals light, white onions are a great option because they add flavor without adding a lot of calories.
Varieties of White Onions
Here are some common varieties of white onions:
- Texas Super Sweet – This variety comes from Texas and is known for being less pungent and sweeter than typical white onions, making it great for eating raw.
- White Bermuda – Grown in warmer climates, this onion has a mild flavor and a slightly flattened shape, perfect for salads or grilling.
- Crystal Wax – Also called White Wax onions, these have a soft texture and a sweeter taste. They’re often used for pickling because they’re small and flavorful.
- Southport White Globe – This is a more traditional variety of white onion, with a round shape and a strong, spicy flavor. It’s commonly used in cooking, especially in soups or stews.
- White Creole – This variety comes from southern regions and has a firm texture with a slightly stronger flavor. It’s often used in Cajun or Creole cooking for that extra kick.
What Do White Onions Taste Like
White onions have a sharp, clean taste that’s a bit more on the strong side compared to other onions, but not too overwhelming. When you eat them raw, they have this crisp bite with a slight sweetness that fades into a bit of a peppery kick. They can be a bit eye-watering at first, but once you get used to it, they add a nice punch to things like salads or sandwiches. When you cook them, they mellow out, becoming softer and sweeter, but they still keep a little of that signature onion bite. It’s like they balance between spicy and sweet, depending on how you use them.
How To Use White Onions
Here’s how you can use white onions in different ways:
- Raw in salads – Their crisp texture and mild flavor make them perfect for tossing in salads, adding a nice crunch without overpowering other ingredients.
- Salsas and dips – Chop them up finely and mix them into fresh salsa or guacamole for an extra burst of flavor. White onions add a zesty bite that’s perfect for dips.
- Grilled or roasted – White onions get sweeter when grilled or roasted. Slice them thick, throw them on the grill or roast them in the oven, and they caramelize nicely.
- Soups and stews – Add them to your soups and stews early on in cooking. Their flavor blends well with other ingredients, giving the dish a rich base without being too strong.
- Pickling – You can pickle white onions with vinegar, salt, and a bit of sugar. They’re great as a tangy topping for tacos or sandwiches.
- Sandwiches and burgers – Thinly slice them and layer onto sandwiches or burgers for a fresh, sharp flavor that cuts through the richness of meats and cheeses.
- Stir-fries – Throw them into stir-fries for a slightly sweet, slightly spicy flavor that works well with other veggies and sauces. They cook fast and add great texture.
Substitute for White Onions
Here are some substitutes for white onions:
- Yellow onions – These are the closest match in flavor and texture. They’re a bit stronger and sweeter, but they work in most recipes where white onions are called for.
- Red onions – If you’re looking for something that’s still mild but with a bit of color, red onions can be a great option. They’re a little sweeter and often used raw in salads or sandwiches.
- Shallots – Shallots have a milder, slightly sweeter flavor compared to white onions. They’re smaller but pack a nice, delicate onion taste, perfect for dressings or sauces.
- Green onions (scallions) – If you want a milder, less pungent option, green onions work well. They don’t have the same crunch but add a fresh oniony flavor, especially in raw dishes.
- Leeks – Leeks have a more subtle, earthy onion flavor. They’re great in soups, stews, or sautéed, though they won’t give you the sharpness of white onions.
- Sweet onions (like Vidalia) – These are sweeter and less sharp than white onions. They caramelize really well, making them great for cooking, though they might be too sweet for some raw dishes.
Where to Buy White Onions
Here’s where you can buy white onions:
- Grocery stores – Most regular grocery stores, like Walmart, Safeway, or Kroger, will have white onions in the produce section. They’re usually sold next to other onion varieties like yellow and red.
- Farmers’ markets – If you’re looking for super fresh, local white onions, farmers’ markets are a great place. You can often find them straight from the farm, which means they might have more flavor.
- Online grocery delivery – Services like Instacart or Amazon Fresh offer white onions for delivery if you can’t make it to the store. Just search for white onions in their produce section.
- Specialty stores – Stores that specialize in organic or gourmet foods, like Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s, often carry white onions, sometimes even organic ones.
- Ethnic markets – White onions are commonly used in Latin American and Asian cooking, so you’ll likely find them in ethnic grocery stores, especially in large quantities or at lower prices.
How To Store White Onions
Here’s a detailed guide on how to store white onions:
- Cool, dry place – Whole white onions should be kept in a place that’s dry and cool, but not too cold, ideally between 45-55°F (about 7-13°C). A pantry, cellar, or a kitchen cabinet that doesn’t get too warm is perfect. Humidity can cause onions to spoil faster, so avoid places like under the sink. Keeping them out of direct sunlight helps prevent sprouting and mold growth.
- Ventilation is key – Onions need to “breathe.” When storing whole white onions, don’t stuff them into a sealed plastic bag. The lack of airflow will trap moisture and cause them to rot. A mesh bag, a perforated plastic bag, or even a paper bag with small holes punched in it is ideal. You can also use a basket or bowl with enough air circulation around the onions. If you bought them in a mesh bag, just keep them in that.
- Avoid the fridge for whole onions – Storing whole white onions in the refrigerator isn’t the best idea. In the fridge, onions absorb moisture and can turn soft or get moldy faster than if they were stored in a cool, dry spot. The cold temperature can also break down the starches in onions, making them mushy over time. Save fridge space for other things!
- Once cut, refrigerate properly – After you’ve sliced, chopped, or peeled a white onion, it’s important to store the leftovers correctly. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to seal out air, or use an airtight container. This keeps them from drying out or absorbing the smells of other foods in the fridge. Cut onions will last about 7-10 days, but it’s always a good idea to smell or check for any signs of spoilage before using them.
- Freezing for long-term storage – If you’ve got more onions than you can use, freezing is a great option, though it’s best to do this with chopped onions. First, peel and chop the onions, spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer, and freeze for a few hours (this prevents clumping). Then, transfer the frozen pieces to a freezer bag or airtight container. Press out as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen onions will last up to 6 months, but they might lose some of their crunch and are better suited for cooked dishes like soups, stews, or sautés.
- Keep them away from potatoes – Storing onions near potatoes is a common mistake. Potatoes release gases and moisture as they age, which can cause onions to spoil faster. To make your onions last, store them separately from potatoes, even if they’re in the same pantry. Keeping a little distance between them helps both veggies stay fresh longer.
- Drying out peeled onions – If you have peeled whole onions, but haven’t cut them yet, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last for about a week, but they can dry out if not covered properly. It’s best to use peeled onions sooner rather than later since they lose moisture faster than whole, unpeeled ones.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About White Onions
Are white onions and sweet onions the same?
While not all white onions are sweet, some varieties are mild and can be considered sweet. However, the term “sweet onion” often refers to specific varieties like Vidalia or Walla Walla, which are typically yellow but have a mild, sweet flavor.
Can white onions be used interchangeably with yellow onions in recipes?
Yes, white onions can generally be used interchangeably with yellow onions in many recipes. Yellow onions have a stronger flavor, so keep in mind that the substitution might impact the overall taste of the dish.
Do white onions taste different from red onions?
Yes, white onions have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to red onions, which can be more pungent and slightly peppery. The choice between the two depends on the desired flavor profile in a particular dish.
Can you eat white onions raw?
Yes, white onions can be eaten raw. They add a mild and slightly sweet flavor to salads, salsas, sandwiches, and other raw dishes.
Do white onions have health benefits?
Yes, white onions, like other onions, contain antioxidants and various nutrients. They may offer health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties, cardiovascular support, and potential anticancer effects. However, individual responses can vary.
How do you chop white onions without crying?
To reduce tearing while chopping onions, you can try chilling the onion in the refrigerator before cutting, cutting near a flame to burn off irritants, or using a sharp knife to minimize cell damage and release of onion vapors.
Are white onions suitable for caramelizing?
Yes, white onions are suitable for caramelizing. They will yield a sweeter flavor when cooked slowly over low heat until golden brown.
Can you freeze white onions?
While freezing may alter the texture of raw white onions, they can be frozen after being blanched or sautéed. Frozen onions are often used in cooked dishes like soups and stews.
Are white onions and scallions the same?
No, white onions and scallions (green onions) are different. White onions are bulbs with a mild flavor, while scallions have a mild onion taste but consist of long, thin stalks without a developed bulb.
How long do white onions last?
When stored in a cool, dry place, white onions can last for several weeks to a few months. However, their shelf life depends on factors such as storage conditions, variety, and freshness at the time of purchase.
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