Vegetable | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Sweet White Onion

Allium cepa Allergen-Free
Sweet White Onion

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Amaryllidaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Late Summer
  • Source Onion plant bulb

The Forktionary Angle

"The Gentle Giant of the Allium Family"

Definition

A mild-flavored onion variety with a crisp texture and high sugar content, suitable for raw consumption.

Sensory Profile

TasteMildly sweet, juicy, less pungent than other onions
TextureCrisp, juicy
AromaMild onion, less sharp than yellow/red
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Moisture Content

Higher than other onion types.

Storage

Cool, dry, dark place for 1-2 months.

Usage

Excellent raw in salads and salsas.

Nutrition Facts

Per 1/2 medium onion (approx. 55g)
Calories40 kcal
Total Fat0.1g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein1.1g
Total Carbohydrate9.3g
Dietary Fiber1.7g
Total Sugars4.2g
Calcium23mg
Iron0.2mg
Potassium146mg

Chef’s Secret

For truly mild raw onion, thinly slice and soak in ice water for 10-15 minutes, then drain and pat dry.

Substitutions

Best Match

Vidalia Onion

1:1

Another sweet onion variety, very similar in taste and texture, often interchangeable.

Yellow Onion (soaked in ice water)

1:1

Soaking reduces pungency, but it will still be less sweet than a true sweet onion.

Shallot

1:1 (by weight)

Milder, more delicate flavor, excellent for cooked dishes where a subtle onion flavor is desired.

Red Onion (soaked in ice water)

1:1

Visually distinct, but soaking reduces sharp flavor for raw applications.

Buying Guide

Select firm, dry onions with no sprouts or soft spots. Store in a cool, dark, well-ventilated place, separate from potatoes.

Flavor Pairings

Salads Sandwiches Burgers Salsas Pickles Stir-fries Fajitas Onion Rings

Recipes Using Sweet White Onion

Central American Cuisine Central American 5 Ingredients Or Less

Beef Jerk Burgers Caribbean

Fire up your grill for a taste of the Caribbean! These juicy Beef Jerk Burgers are bursting with flavor, thanks to a vibrant blend of jerk seasoning. Served on crusty rolls with fresh tomato and lettuce, they're the perfect summer BBQ centerpiece. Complete the meal with creamy potato salad and a refreshing Caribbean coleslaw (recipes available separately!). Get ready for a flavor explosion!

See Complete Recipe