All About Tree Onions
Have you ever come across a vegetable that grows in an unconventional way, questions your knowledge about common produce, and amazes you with its health benefits all at once? Meet tree onions, a culinary gem that is as intriguing as its name suggests.
The Enigma of Tree Onions
Also known as walking onions, Egyptian onions, or top-set onions, tree onions (Allium × proliferum) are a part of the allium family that includes familiar staples like garlic, chives, leeks, and shallots. What sets tree onions apart from their relatives is their unique growing process — rather than producing seeds or bulbs under the soil, tree onions produce clusters of small onions, or “bulbils,” at the top of their stalk, giving the impression of a miniature tree heavily laden with miniature apples. But don’t let their peculiar appearance fool you. These tiny onions are packed with a robust flavor that packs a punch in various culinary delights. Learn more about the Allium × proliferum from the experts at The Royal Horticultural Society.
Nutritional Profile and Health Benefits
Tree onions are not just about the enchanting appearance. They’re renowned for their nutritional punch, too. They are low in calories yet high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, B vitamins, and potassium. Furthermore, tree onions are a great source of dietary fiber, which can help maintain healthy digestion.
When it comes to health benefits, tree onions are no less than a superfood. The antioxidant properties of vitamin C help to combat harmful free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. Additionally, the B vitamins in tree onions play a crucial role in cellular metabolism, keeping your body’s energy levels up. And, potassium is known for its role in maintaining lower blood pressure levels, supporting heart health.
Apart from these primary benefits, multiple studies have credited allium vegetables with potential benefits ranging from improved bone health to enhanced immunity and mental health benefits. Tree onions, with their high concentration of beneficial compounds, are no exception to this. Read more about the comprehensive health benefits of allium vegetables in this report by the National Center for Biotechnology Information.
Infusing Tree Onions into Your Diet
Though unusual in their growing process, tree onions can be used much like you would use regular onions. The smaller bulbils can be pickled or used in salads, while the more mature onions can be chopped or sliced and added to soups, stews, or stir-fry dishes. Due to their potent flavor, they can elevate the taste profile of your meals remarkably.
Intrigued about exploring more ways to include tree onions in your day-to-day recipes? Check out this collection of delicious onion-based recipes by Taste of Home!
In a nutshell, tree onions offer an exotic twist to the conventional produce while promising an array of health benefits. So if you haven’t tried this gem yet, now may be the perfect time to branch out and treat your palate to this outstanding member of the allium family!
Tree Onion Recipe Ideas
- Tree Onion and Tomato Chutney
- Spicy Tree Onion Soup
- Tree Onion and Zucchini Pasta
- Tree Onion and Cheese Quiche
- Stir-Fried Tree Onion with Bell Peppers
- Chicken with Tree Onion and Garlic Sauce
- Tuna and Tree Onion Salad
- Tree Onion and Potato Hash
- Vegetarian Tree Onion and Spinach Tart
- Pumpkin and Tree Onion Risotto
