From the Earth to Your Table: All about Tenerife Onions
En Sanus Market, an organic store in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, we pride ourselves on offering fresh and local products, such as onions, a versatile food full of properties. Also known as “the golden bulb”, onions are an essential vegetable in the kitchen and in the Mediterranean diet. Join us to discover more about their characteristics, origin, curiosities and uses.
Characteristics and Curiosities of Onions
La onion (“Allium cepa”) is an underground bulb belonging to the lily family. Its different varieties include white, yellow, purple and sweet onions. In the Canary Islands, onions are highly appreciated for their unique flavour and freshness, thanks to the subtropical climate of the region. In addition, they are known by local names such as “cipolla” or “cibuya” in some popular dialects.
Its origin dates back more than 5.000 years, with evidence of its cultivation in Egypt and Central Asia. An interesting curiosity is that, in ancient Egyptian civilization, it was considered a symbol of eternity due to its concentric circles. Over the centuries, the onion has become an essential ingredient in world gastronomy, standing out for its flavor and nutritional properties.
Nutritional Properties and Benefits of Onion
The onions Not only are they delicious, they are also a superfood packed with health benefits. Rich in antioxidants such as quercetin, they help fight free radicals and strengthen the immune system. They are also a natural source of vitamin C, potassium and sulfur compounds that benefit circulation and help reduce cholesterol levels.
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In herbal medicine, onion is traditionally used as a natural remedy to relieve colds, thanks to its expectorant and antibacterial properties. As if that were not enough, its fiber content promotes good digestion and regulates intestinal transit. It is an ideal food for those looking for a balanced and natural diet.
Varieties of Canary Onions
In the Canary Islands, the wealth of onion varieties is a reflection of the islands' agricultural diversity and the adaptation of crops to their climate and soil conditions. Each type of onion has unique characteristics in terms of flavour, texture and uses in cooking. Below, we present some of the most notable varieties, including the famous Guayonge Red Onion.
- Guayong Red Onione
This variety is one of the most emblematic of the Canary Islands, especially cultivated in the Tacoronte area, Tenerife. It is distinguished by its characteristic violet-red colour and its sweet and smooth flavour, which makes it ideal for eating raw, in salads and fresh sauces. In addition, its texture is crunchy, which makes it an excellent option to give a touch of freshness to any dish. The Guayonge Red Onion is highly valued in local gastronomy, not only for its flavour, but also for being a local product with an agricultural tradition. - White onion
This is one of the most common and versatile varieties. Its flavour is mild and sweet, especially when cooked. In the Canary Islands, white onion is used in stews, soups, omelettes and sauces, as its texture is easily softened by heat. It is also used raw for fresh salads, providing a delicate and light touch. - Purple Onion
Known for its deep purple color, this variety is highly appreciated in cooking for its mild and sweet flavor. It is ideal for eating raw, as its crunchy texture and bright color add an attractive touch to salads, ceviches and cold dishes. In addition, it contains a high level of antioxidants, making it a healthy option. - yellow onion
This variety is one of the most common in world gastronomy. Its flavour is stronger and spicier when raw, but when cooked, its sweetness intensifies, making it a perfect choice for preparing caramelized onions. Its use extends to stews, casseroles, sauces and long-cooked dishes. - Sweet onion
Characterized by its extremely mild and sweet flavor, the sweet onion is highly valued for preparations where an overly spicy flavor is not desired. It is the favorite choice for salads, burgers, and dishes where it is consumed raw. Its mildness makes it a delicious option for children and people who prefer a more delicate flavor. - Spring Onion or Spring Onion
Spring onions are harvested before they reach maturity, which is why they have a fresh and slightly sweet flavour. Both the bulb and the green stem are used in cooking, mainly in salads, omelettes, garnishes and sauces. Their versatility makes them a key ingredient in Canarian cuisine. - Pearl Onion
Smaller than regular onions, this variety is ideal for pickling, garnishing and side dishes. Its flavour is mild, and its small, round shape makes it perfect for gourmet dishes or culinary decorations.
In short, the Canary Islands offer a great diversity of onions, with the Guayonge Red Onion standing out as one of its star products. Each type of onion has its own character and flavour, allowing for great versatility in the kitchen. These varieties not only enrich local gastronomy, but also add value to the region's economy and agricultural sustainability.
Onion Cultivation and Season in the Canary Islands
In the Canary Islands, onions are grown mainly in areas such as Tegueste, La Laguna and the Orotava Valley, where the climatic conditions and volcanic soils enrich its flavour. The onion season on the islands runs from May to October, making them an ideal local product for the hottest months.
En Sanus Market We support local farmers who grow onions sustainably, ensuring that our customers enjoy a fresh, natural and flavourful product. By choosing local onions, you also contribute to the economy of the region and to the care of the environment.
Texture, Flavor and Recipes with Onion
The texture of onions is crunchy when fresh and becomes soft and caramelized when cooked. Their flavor ranges from spicy and strong when raw to sweet and delicate when cooked. They are an essential ingredient in dishes such as omelettes, sauces and stews.
A typical recipe you can try is the “Caramelized Onion with Tenerife Honey”. Simply cut the onions into julienne strips, sauté them over low heat with a little extra virgin olive oil, and add a spoonful of local honey. It is a perfect accompaniment to meats, fish or even toast.
In short, onion It is more than just an ingredient: it is a treasure trove of flavour, health and sustainability. Sanus MarketWe are committed to offering you the best organic onions grown in the Canary Islands, so that you can enjoy their freshness and properties in every bite.
