Onions

Onions form part of the allium family of vegetables and herbs, which also includes chives, garlic, scallions, and leeks. Allium vegetables have been cultivated for centuries and are widely known for their characteristic pungent flavors and medicinal properties. Many archaeologists, botanists, and food historians believe onions originated in central Asia. However, other research suggests onions were first grown in Iran and West Pakistan. It is presumed that wild onions were discovered and eaten very early- long before farming was invented.

Did you know?

• Onions are world’s 6th most popular vegetable crop (based on the volume produced per year).
• In the Middle Ages, onions were an acceptable form of currency.
• Onion is considered to have antiseptic properties and hence, it was heavily used during war times to heal wounds.
• Greeks used to think that eating onions would boost strength and hence, athletes during the first Olympic Games of 1st century CE ate onions.