My French grandmother always plants cloves in an onion, and when I discovered why, I was so surprised. I had never seen this before! Now, I do it myself, and I’m totally convinced by this little trick. Let me explain why cloves in an onion are so special. 👇👇
Cloves are not among the most common kitchen spices, but they have surprising benefits when used correctly. They’re often used in marinades or to flavor hot beverages like mulled wine. However, this spice has many other uses, especially in the secrets of French cooking.
The French are renowned for their culinary expertise, creating dishes that are rich in flavors and aromas. In this culture, every detail matters. In autumn and winter, when fresh herbs become scarce, an ingenious alternative comes into play: the «clouted onion.» The term might catch your attention, as it literally means «onion pierced with cloves.»
In practice, these «cloves» are actually whole cloves that are inserted into a peeled onion. The classic version typically contains 5 to 6 cloves, which releases a subtle, aromatic spice. This clouted onion is not only used in broths, but also in pan-frying or braising. For example, you can place it in a pan with meat, add it to vegetables, or use it on a roasting tray with a joint of meat.
The main flavors of the dish are enhanced by the clove, which acts as a natural flavor booster. This technique has been embraced by chefs worldwide. Thanks to cloves, even the simplest dishes take on a sophisticated, aromatic dimension.
Add a clouted onion to your soup, stew, or slow-cooked dish, and you’ll see how your regular recipe will take on a whole new depth. Using this spice is not just a tradition, but also a way to explore cooking in an entirely new and surprising way.
