National Onion Day: June 27, 2022
Today is the day to celebrate the savory onion. This vegetable is an ancient cultivar originating in Central Asia and grown by humans for over 5000 years. They were first harvested in 3500 BC; the wild variety grew worldwide.
In 1500 BC, the Egyptians believed that onions represented eternity because of their spherical shape and inner concentric circles. Their culture worshipped the onion and used them in the ritual burials of the pharaohs, decorating the monarch’s tombs.
In the United States, the National Onion Association was founded in Ohio in 1913. New York City, now the Big Apple, used to be called the Big Onion because you could peel off layer after layer, never touching the center.
Onions are used in culinary creations from country cooking to gourmet innovations: different onion types add varying flavors. And not only do they taste great, but they’re also good for you: they’re low calorie yet high in antioxidants, dietary fiber, and Vitamins C and B6.
Their medicinal properties have been known for centuries as phlegm expectorants, anti-inflammatories to ease joint pains, and for treating ear infections. It’s been found that they are rich in prebiotics which helps increase good gut bacteria. Recent research points to positive health benefits in fighting breast and colorectal cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and building immunity against viruses.
We all know peeling and chopping an onion can make you cry, but why? They contain sulfuric acid; chilling an onion pre-preparation can reduce this effect. Wearing goggles prevent the chemical vapors from contacting your eyes.
The humble onion is easily grown in the backyard garden in its many varieties: sweet, white, red, and yellow. Which is your favorite? Do you have an onion patch?
