How to use Tropea Red onions in your cooking, creative pairings!

From the land we come from, we bring ingredients that serve as the foundation for countless dishes. One of these is the onion. But not just any onion—the Tropea onion, renowned for its uniquely sweet flavor that sets it apart from all others. Beyond being a staple in recipes like sautéed bases, the Tropea onion can be transformed into sweet-and-sour or caramelized delights, adding a whole new layer of flavor to the dishes it accompanies.
When caramelized, the naturally sweet Tropea onion becomes irresistibly delicious, even on its own, spread over a slice of bread. Paired with certain dishes, however, it takes them to a whole new level of taste.

Tropea onions, known for their natural sweetness and unique flavor, are a game-changer in the kitchen. In this article, we’ll explore how to incorporate Tropea onions into recipes featuring meat, fish, and vegetarian options that are both easy and delicious.

Meat Dishes

Gourmet Burger with Caramelized Tropea Onions

Take your burger to the next level with a perfectly balanced touch of sweet and savory flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (500 g) ground beef
• 1 tsp black pepper
• Caramelized Tropea onions (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Season the ground beef with black pepper and shape it into patties.
2. Cook the patties on a hot grill or skillet, flipping once.
3. Serve with caramelized onions on top, either in a bun or plated with sides.

BBQ Pork Ribs with Caramelized Tropea Onions

BBQ ribs get a surprising twist with the sweet, rich flavor of caramelized onions.

Ingredients:

• 2.2 lbs (1 kg) pork ribs (whole, not separated)
• 1 tsp black pepper
• Caramelized Tropea onions (to taste)
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

1. Marinate the ribs overnight in the refrigerator with black pepper, finely chopped green onions, and lemon juice.
2. Before cooking, bring the ribs to room temperature. Grill over high heat until the fat begins to render, then switch to indirect heat. Baste with the marinade as the ribs cook.
3. After about an hour, separate the ribs if desired and grill briefly on each side before serving. Add caramelized onions as a finishing touch.

Roasted Chicken or Turkey with Caramelized Tropea Onions

Enhance the flavor and tenderness of roasted chicken or turkey with a dollop of caramelized onions, a perfect complement to drier cuts of poultry.

Vegetarian Dishes

Savory Cheesecake with Caramelized Onions

A fun and creative appetizer that’s as impressive as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups whole-wheat crackers, crushed
• 7 tbsp (100 g) melted butter
• 1½ cups (300 g) cream cheese
• 1 cup (200 g) ricotta cheese
• Chives (to taste)
• Grated Parmesan (to taste)
• Caramelized Tropea onions (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Combine the crushed crackers and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan and chill.
2. Mix cream cheese, ricotta, Parmesan, and chives. Spread the cheese mixture over the crust and refrigerate until firm.
3. Serve with caramelized onions spooned on top.

‘Mbacchiuse’ Potatoes with Tropea Onions

A classic Calabrian dish, these sautéed potatoes pair beautifully with caramelized onions.

Ingredients:

• Potatoes
• Olive oil
• Caramelized Tropea onions (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Slice the potatoes thinly.
2. Cook them slowly in a pan with olive oil, avoiding frequent stirring to keep them intact.
3. Garnish with caramelized onions for a sweet and savory finish.

Pumpkin Flan with Caramelized Onions

This elegant side dish or appetizer will wow your guests with its creamy texture and vibrant flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (1 kg) pumpkin, peeled and diced
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (200 g) grated pecorino cheese
• Breadcrumbs (as needed)
• Fresh parsley and rosemary
• Olive oil, salt
• Caramelized Tropea onions (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Roast the pumpkin with rosemary, olive oil, and a pinch of salt at 350°F (180°C) for 30 minutes.
2. Puree the pumpkin and mix it with eggs, pecorino, parsley, and breadcrumbs to achieve a smooth but not runny batter.
3. Grease small ramekins, coat them with breadcrumbs, and fill them ¾ full with the batter.
4. Bake at 340°F (170°C) for 30 minutes. Let cool slightly, unmold, and top with caramelized onions before serving.

Fish Dishes

Seared Tuna with Caramelized Onions

A quick and flavorful dish that highlights the natural richness of tuna.

Ingredients:

• 2 fresh tuna steaks
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Caramelized Tropea onions (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Season the tuna with black pepper and a touch of olive oil.
2. Sear in a hot skillet for a few minutes per side, leaving the center pink.
3. Serve over a bed of caramelized onions.

Polenta Cups with Salmon and Caramelized Onions

These polenta cups are a creative appetizer that’s as delicious as it is visually stunning.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (250 g) polenta
• 5 cups (1.2 l) water
• 1 tbsp salt
• 7 oz (200 g) smoked salmon
• Caramelized Tropea onions (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Prepare polenta according to package instructions. Pour into muffin molds and let cool.
2. Hollow out the center of each polenta cup and fill with caramelized onions. Top with smoked salmon.
3. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Cod in Tomato and Tropea Onion Sauce

This light and flavorful dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

• 14 oz (400 g) cod fillets
• 2 Tropea onions, thinly sliced
• Cherry tomatoes (to taste)
• Olive oil, salt, and pepper

Instructions:

1. Sauté sliced onions in olive oil until soft. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices.
2. Add the cod fillets, season with salt and pepper, and cover. Cook until the fish flakes easily with a fork.

Ready to try Tropea Red Onion? Order our caramelized Tropea onions today and discover how this simple yet versatile ingredient can transform your favorite recipes.