Vegetable | Vegan Gluten Free Low Calorie Ketogenic

Sweet Red Onion

Allium cepa Allergen-Free
Sweet Red Onion

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Amaryllidaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mediterranean|American
  • Seasonality Late Spring|Summer
  • Source Onion

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

A large, mild onion variety with a distinct red-purple skin, known for its sweet flavor and crisp texture when raw, ideal for salads.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet,Mildly Pungent,Slightly Piquant
TextureCrisp (raw),Tender (cooked),Juicy
AromaMildly Pungent,Sweet,Sulfuric (raw)
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 110g (1 medium)
Calories40 kcal
Total Fat0.1 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1.1 g
Total Carbohydrate9.3 g
Dietary Fiber1.7 g
Total Sugars4.2 g
Calcium23 mg
Iron0.2 mg
Potassium146 mg

Chef’s Secret

To reduce the pungency of raw red onion for salads, slice it thinly and soak in ice water for 15-30 minutes, then drain thoroughly.

Substitutions

Best Match

Yellow Onion

1:1

More pungent when raw, but sweetens significantly when cooked, good all-purpose.

Shallot

2:1 (shallots:onion)

Finer texture and milder, more delicate flavor, excellent for raw applications.

White Onion

1:1

Crisper and sharper when raw, similar to yellow onion when cooked.

Scallions (Green Onions)

Varies

For mild onion flavor in garnishes or light cooking, very different texture.

Buying Guide

Select firm onions with dry, papery skins and no soft spots, sprouts, or strong odors for optimal freshness.

Flavor Pairings

Tomatoes cucumbers feta cheese herbs grilled meats salads pickles.