Essential Points
• You can eat onions that have sprouted, though they may taste a bit bitter.
• Use sprouted onions quickly after noticing the sprouts.
• Add sprouted onions to dishes with robust flavors, like stews, where their bitterness will be less apparent.
You’re all set to start cooking, onion in hand, when suddenly you spot a green shoot emerging from it. Hold off on ordering delivery just yet—continue reading for some tips.
Can You Eat Sprouted Onions?
Fortunately, sprouted onions are perfectly safe to consume. “There are no toxins in sprouted onions,” clarifies Ann Ziata, a chef at the Institute of Culinary Education. “The sprouting process uses the onion’s sugars to grow, which can make the onion taste bitter and cause it to dry out,” she adds.
Emilie Berner, another chef instructor at the same institute, concurs. “They might taste bitter, so it’s advisable to remove the sprouts when cooking,” she suggests.
Best Uses for Sprouted Onions
It’s best to use sprouted onions quickly to prevent further changes in taste and texture. They can be used just like regular onions, but they excel in recipes where their slightly bitter taste won’t overshadow other flavors. “Given their altered texture and flavor, consider using them in flavorful dishes like chili or meatloaf,” suggests Berner.
It’s generally not a good idea to use them raw or in dishes where onions are the star ingredient. “Sprouted onions aren’t as crisp or sweet,” explains Ziata. “Avoid using them in dishes like French onion soup or raw in salads and sandwiches,” she recommends.
If you’re into getting the most out of your vegetables, consider using the sprouts in cooking as well. “You can chop the sprouts (preferably younger ones) and sauté them in a stir-fry, similar to how you would use spring onions or scallions,” Ziata advises.
Why Onions Sprout
When you see a green shoot on your onion, it’s trying to grow and reproduce. Onions typically sprout due to too much moisture and poor air circulation—common issues when onions are stored in the refrigerator.
When to Discard Sprouted Onions
If your sprouted onion is dry or shows signs of mold, it’s time to compost it. “Avoid using the sprout if the onion is visibly old or decaying,” Berner cautions.
Preventing Onion Sprouts
Proper storage is key to preventing onions from sprouting. Like potatoes, onions thrive in a cool, dark, and dry environment with plenty of air circulation. “Keep your onions in a dark, cool place,” Berner advises. “They are likely to sprout in the presence of sunlight as it signals them to grow.” To ensure good air flow, store onions in a mesh bag or a wire bowl, not in plastic.
While onions and potatoes may be culinary companions, they should not be stored together. “Keep onions away from potatoes and apples, as onions emit a gas that can cause them to spoil faster,” notes Ziata.
Additionally, avoid storing onions in plastic bags or wrapping them in plastic, as this can reduce their shelf life, according to the National Onion Association.
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