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Pearl Onion

Pearl onions are petite, round, marble-sized onions with thin, papery skin and a mild flavor. They are often found in white, red, and gold varieties, and are a popular ingredient in a variety of dishes, especially in classic French cuisine. These small onions are known for their delicate sweetness and a slightly crunchy texture when cooked, making them versatile for many recipes. Typically used as pickling onions or added to stews, roasts, and sauces, pearl onions are an excellent choice for enhancing the flavors of a wide range of dishes. They can be caramelized, braised or even roasted alongside vegetables and proteins. Their small size and beautiful presentation make them an attractive garnish or a flavorful addition to hors d'oeuvres and appetizers.
#98
IN FRESH VEGETABLES
35
CAL / 100G
$0.30
AVG / OZ
pearl onion
100%
CARBS
0%
FAT
0%
PROTEIN
Pearl Onion FAQ
Pearl onions, due to their delicate sweetness and slightly crunchy texture when cooked, present a versatile ingredient for numerous recipes. Their use extends to pickling, inclusion in stews, roasts, and sauces, as well as caramelizing, braising, and roasting alongside vegetables and proteins. Despite their small size, peeling pearl onions seem to be the most common hurdle home cooks struggle with. However, there’s a simple solution. Blanch them in boiling water for about 2 minutes, then shock in ice water. The outer skin will peel off easily. For higher flavor payoff, consider briefly sautéing them in some olive oil before incorporating in dishes. A little known fact about pearl onions is that they can be used in sweet recipes. Given their natural sweetness, they can quite easily be a surprising addition to dessert recipes, especially when caramelized.
How do you peel pearl onions without crying?
Can pearl onions be substituted for white onions?
Can you eat pearl onions raw?
What is a good pearl onion substitute?
Can you caramelize pearl onions?
How can I reduce the strong taste of pearl onions?
Why are my cooked pearl onions bitter?
Can I use red pearl onions instead of white ones?
What’s the best way to cook pearl onions?
Can I use pearl onions in dessert recipes?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does pearl onion expire?
Pearl onions, when unopened and still in their container, can last for two to three months at room temperature, just ensure they are in a dry, cool, well-ventilated area free from high humidity. Do not store them in plastic bags as this can lead to mold development. Once the pack has been opened, they generally last up to 10-14 days in the refrigerator. However, if they are individually peeled and stored, they will only last for about a week in the fridge. Sometimes, consumers choose to freeze pearl onions, in which case, they can stay good for up to 12 months in the freezer.
How do you tell if pearl onion is bad?
You can tell if pearl onions have gone bad if they develop a strong, unpleasant smell, moist texture or if there are visible signs of mold. If the onions feel soft when you gently squeeze them, this is often a clear sign that they've spoiled. Always discard any onions with a sour smell or spots of dark discoloration as they are sure indicators of decay.
Tips for storing pearl onion to extend shelf life
• Do not wash the onions before storing as it can decrease their shelf life. Clean them only when you are about to use them. • Always store pearl onions in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place. Basements, pantries, and cellars are excellent options. • If storing in a refrigerator, place them in the vegetable drawer inside a paper bag, not a plastic one. Plastic bags will retain moisture and can cause the onions to rot. • Freezing pearl onions is another great way to preserve them. Just peel, blanch and flash freeze them before storing in a freezer bag or airtight container. • If you've chopped more pearl onions than you need, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Use them within 7-10 days. • Make sure to rotate the stock; use the old onions before the new ones.
EXPIRES WITHIN
2 - 4
WEEKS
Health Info
Macros
4g
CARBS
0g
FAT
0g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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