The French pearl onion, also known as pearl onion, is a variety of onion characterized by being small, round and having a mild and sweet flavor. It is widely used in cooking to add flavor and texture to various preparations, and is also consumed raw in salads.
Origins and history of the French pearl onion
It is believed that the pearl onion is native to Central Asia and that its cultivation will spread to Europe through Persia and Turkey. In France, this variety of onion has been cultivated since the Middle Ages, and was very popular at royal and aristocratic banquets of the time.
Agriculture and varieties
The pearl onion is grown in temperate and fresh climates, and requires a well-drained soil rich in nutrients for its optimal growth. It is sown in spring or autumn, and takes between 70 and 90 days to be ready for harvesting. Varieties: There are several varieties of pearl onion, with the most common being white and red. There are also varieties of yellow and golden pearl onion.
Health and nutrition
Pearl onions are an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, and have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. In addition, its low calorie content and high water content make it a healthy option to include in the diet.
French pearl onion in cooking and gastronomy
Pearl onions are usually used as a garnish in dishes of meat, chicken or fish, and are usually cooked sautéed or roasted. It is also a popular ingredient in stews and soups, and can be added raw to salads and sauces. Additionally, pearl onions are used in the preparation of the classic French recipe for pearl onions in red wine, in which the onions are cooked in a reduction of red wine and beef broth until they are tender and caramelized.
A recipe with French pearl onion
Vegetarian Hamburgers of French Pearl Onion
Ingredients for 4 people:
500g of French pearl onions, peeled and chopped
1 cup of chickpea flour (can be substituted with wheat or oat flour)
1/4 cup of oat flakes
1/4 cup of grated carrot
1/4 cup of grated zucchini
1/4 cup of chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup of chopped yellow bell pepper
1/4 cup of chopped green bell pepper
1/4 cup of chopped onion
2 cloves of garlic, chopped
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1 teaspoon of sweet paprika powder
1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric
1/4 teaspoon of salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper (or to taste)
Olive oil (for cooking)
Process:
Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped French pearl onions and cook until golden and tender. Transfer the onions to a large bowl.
Add the chickpea flour, oat flakes, grated carrot, grated zucchini, chopped red, yellow, and green bell peppers, chopped onion, chopped garlic, ground cumin, sweet paprika powder, ground turmeric, salt, and ground black pepper to the bowl with the cooked onions.
Mix all the ingredients until well combined. If the mixture is too dry, add a little water or olive oil to make it come together better.
Form burgers with the onion and vegetable mixture.
Heat a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the burgers in the skillet until golden and crispy on the outside, about 4-5 minutes on each side.
Transfer the burgers to a baking tray and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Serve the vegetarian French pearl onion burgers with your favorite toppings, such as burger buns, avocado, tomato, lettuce, and a sauce of your choice. Enjoy!
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