The Forktionary Angle

"The gentle giant of the allium family, bringing mellow sweetness to any dish, raw or cooked."

Definition

A mild, sweet onion variety with high sugar content, ideal for caramelizing and raw consumption.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Mildly Pungent, Umami

TextureCrisp, Juicy, Tender (when cooked)

AromaAromatic, Sweet, Sulfur

AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Best Storage Temp

45-55°F (cool, dry, dark)

Natural Sugar Content

Higher than other onions

Sulfur Compound Reduction

Lower than pungent onions

Nutrition Facts

Per 110g

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 tearing when slicing, chill onions in the freezer for 15 minutes before cutting. The cold slows the release of syn-propanethial-S-oxide.

Substitutions

Best Match

Vidalia Onion

1:1

Best for raw use or caramelizing; very similar flavor profile.

Walla Walla Onion

1:1

Another sweet, mild variety, excellent raw in salads.

Yellow Onion

1:1

Good for cooking where some pungency is desired, may need longer caramelization.

Shallot

2 small:1 medium

Milder and sweeter than regular onions, good for delicate dishes.

Buying Guide

Choose firm, unblemished onions with dry outer skins. Avoid soft spots or sprouts. Store in a cool, dry, dark, well-ventilated area.

Flavor Pairings

Garlic thyme rosemary balsamic vinegar cheese beef pork poultry apples pears.

Yellow Sweet Onion

Sourcing & Taxonomy