Inside Out: Onion Types, Uses, Storage & Kitchen Tips

Can you imagine cooking a full day’s worth of meals without onions? I can’t — and I’m guessing you can’t either. Whether they’re sizzling in a pan, melting into a curry, or adding crunch to a salad, onions quietly build the flavour foundation of almost every dish we love.

And if you’re anything like me, winter means doubling down on onion-rich meals to keep colds, sniffles, and low-energy days at bay. Let’s walk through everything you need to know about onions — from choosing the right type to storing them like a pro.

📣 Please note: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you. Think of it as a tiny thank‑you for sharing my favorite culinary finds. Your support truly means a lot.

an image of onion to show and tell how to use onions

Why Onions Deserve a Permanent Spot in Your Kitchen

They add instant flavour: Onions bring aroma, depth, and sweetness to almost any dish. Raw or cooked, they show up and do the work.
The fit into every meal: Breakfast eggs, lunch wraps, dinner curries, sambals, soups — onions slide into every cuisine and every moment of the day.
They’re packed with health benefits: Onions are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. They may help: support
- support immunity
- reduce cold and flu symptoms
- improve gut and heart health
- regulate blood sugar
- lower cancer risk
They’re useful beyond cooking: This is where onions surprise people. They can:
- clean grills
- polish metalss
- absorb odors
- act as natural dye
- show up in home remedies (hello, earache relief)
They’re easy to store and prep: Long shelf life, minimal waste, and every part can be used or repurposed. A pantry dream.

🌿 Just a friendly reminder: I’m a passionate foodie, not a certified nutrition or health professional. Everything shared here — recipes, tips, and food inspiration — is meant for enjoyment and creativity in your kitchen. For dietary guidance or health concerns, always consult a qualified professional.

types of onions displayed to show and tell how to use onions

Types of Onions & How to Use Each One

Not all onions taste the same — and choosing the right one can transform your dish.

White Onions – Mild, crisp, and slightly sweet. Best for: sautéing, soups, stews, stir-fries.
Yellow Onions – Your everyday, do-it-all onion. Best for: caramelizing, curries, slow-cooked dishes.
Red (Purple) Onions – Sharp, vibrant, and perfect raw. Best for: salads, sambals, dips, pickles, BBQ skewers.

How to Cut Onions Without Crying

Let’s be honest — onions test our emotional strength. These tricks actually help:

Use a sharp knife: cleaner cuts = fewer irritants released.
Chill the onion: 30 minutes in the fridge reduces the sting.
Keep the root intact: it holds the highest concentration of tear-inducing compounds.
Use a fan or safety glasses: blow fumes away and protect your eyes.
Cut quickly but safely: speed helps, but fingers first.

Onion Recipes You’ll Love

Sri Lankan Onion Recipes

Some of My Favourites Onion Recipes

🍽️ Craving more? From vegan‑friendly dishes, meat‑lovers favorites, to soul-food from the island, there’s a burst of flavor waiting in every recipe. Cook to satisfy your cravings — one delicious bite at a time.

🎯 Let’s be real: Deciding what to cook or even what groceries to buy can feel overwhelming on a chaotic day. Browse our curated collection of meal planners and kitchen resources to stay organized, simplify your day, and make cooking feel effortless. Grab your copy today and make life easier.

How to Store Onions Properly

To keep onions fresh and flavourful:

Store in a dry, dark, well‑ventilated spot
Keep them away from fruits like apples and pears
Use an open rack or basket, not sealed containers

Shelf life:

Regular onions: 3–4 weeks
Sweet onions: 1–2 weeks

🔥Show Off Your Plating by tagging @iberrychik on Instagram or Pinterest — I love seeing your cooking. Let’s savor this food journey together.

📬 Subscribe to not miss a thing on Berrychik. You’ll get sneak peeks, free perks, and mouth‑watering recipes delivered straight to your inbox. Psst… when you join for FREE, you’ll also receive a FREE 7‑Day Meal Planner. Check out our shelf to view the collection.