onions

No Tears!

✿ Chill onions before chopping - 30 minutes in the refrigerator or 10 minutes in the freezer.

✿ Use a very sharp knife.

✿ Start cutting at the stem end.

■ Store whole onions in a cool, dark, dry place in an open bowl or bag for several weeks. They need air around them to slow spoilage.

■ Refrigerate peeled or cut onions in sealed containers or wrapped tightly. Use within 1 to 2 weeks.

Yellow onions are most common. They store well.

White onions are usually sharper in flavor.

Red onions are somewhat mild in flavor. Their red skin adds color to dishes.

Sweet onions have a mild flavor even when raw. They don't store as long.

❁ Choose whole onions that are firm and heavy for their size, and have no scent. Look for a dry, papery outer skin. Avoid cut, bruised or sprouting onions.