Tips for Consuming Raw Onions
To make raw onions more digestible, slice and soak them in cold water or milk, changing the soaking liquid a couple of times. Raw onions can be hard to digest due to their fructan content. Luckily, there are ways to consume them without side effects. Using fresh onions, proper cutting techniques, and more digestible varieties like Cilentane from Vatolla and Perugine from Cannara can help. Avoid long cooking times, as high temperatures inhibit digestive enzymes. Onions are more digestible when cooked in oil or milk. Do not leave the onion in oil for too long when sautéing, instead sauté in a little oil and hot water or white wine, without letting it brown. For salads, thinly slice and sprinkle with salt, then soak them in ice water before rinsing and drying. A practical tip is to pair them with spices or herbs such as fennel and oregano.
How to Reduce the Strong Flavor of Raw Onions?
To lessen the strong taste of raw onions, place them in a bowl with salt, mix, let sit, and then rinse. Sharpening knives reduces odor and aroma. Rinsing with salt to extract the juice also helps. A simple soak in water or using lemon eliminates the intense taste.
Removing Gas from Onions
After slicing the onion, soak it in milk for about an hour and repeat the process twice before cooking. Immersing in warm water and white vinegar or milk reduces acidity and gas, making it digestible even when raw.
Which Onion Is Easier to Digest?
White onions are easier to digest compared to other varieties and are typical in September. Rich in essential nutrients, they positively impact blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Why Are Onions Hard to Digest?
Onions and garlic, containing a lot of sulfur, can complicate digestion and liver function. Lifestyle choices and hard-to-digest foods cause digestive issues. Moderation in consumption and attention to food combinations can improve digestion.
Lightening the Flavor of Onions
To lighten the flavor, cover the onion with red or white wine vinegar and let it marinate for 15-20 minutes before adding it to dishes. Vinegar makes the onion less pungent and more digestible.
Effects of Eating Raw Onions
Raw onions are antibacterial, antifungal, stimulate kidneys, and combat intestinal worms, making them beneficial for diabetics and those at risk of cardiovascular diseases. They have diuretic and rejuvenating effects and reduce the risk of tumors but can be irritating for individuals with gastritis or gastric ulcers.