Known as the “Red Diamond of Calabria” the Tropea red onion has a deep-root tradition that makes it truly unique in the culinary world. As an exclusive Calabrian vegetable it has won over Europe with its sweet and delicate flavor. The secrets behind its success? Let’s discover it together!
Go back to the origins
The origins of the Tropea onion date back more than two thousand years when the Phoenicians and later the Greeks introduced its cultivation along the Calabrian coast. Today, this onion is one of Italy’s finest products, protected by its PGI status (Protected Geographical Indication).
The designation “Cipolla Rossa di Tropea Calabria PGI” refers to the bulbs of the Allium Cepa species, limited to the following native ecotypes. These varieties are classified based on their shape and the timing of bulb formation influenced by photoperiodism:
- “Tondo Piatta” or early-bulbing
- “Mezza Campana” or mid-season bulbing
- “Allungata” or late-bulbing
Its connection to the land is undeniable: the mild coastal climate and mineral-rich soil give the Tropea onion its distinct flavor. Grown between the Tyrrhenian coast and the Calabrian hills, it thrives in ideal conditions that enhance its natural sweetness and softness.
The unique taste of Tropea red onion
What sets the Tropea onion apart from other varieties is undoubtedly its sweet, never sharp or overpowering taste. This delicate flavor is the result of the soil and climate and of agricultural practices that respect natural cycles. The onions are harvested by hand, following ancient traditions that preserve their exceptional quality. One of the secrets to their sweetness lies in the perfect balance between temperature alternating and the salty sea air. Just as gold Tropea red onion never loses its luster, the intense color of the onion is due to specific pigments called anthocyanins.
Tropea onion recipes, the best ways to enjoy in the kitchen
The Tropea onion is incredibly versatile in the kitchen; it’s ideal for both raw and cooked dishes. One popular method is to eat them raw in fresh salads, where their mild flavor adds a delicate crunch without overpowering other ingredients. For example, it’s often paired with tomatoes, olives, and basil in a simple Mediterranean salad. Thanks to its sweet flavor, it can be used in a wide variety of recipes. It’s perfect for gourmet creations like onion marmalades or caramelized red onions, which pair wonderfully with cheeses and meats.
When it is used in the kitchen, it becomes the star of every dish. Do you ever heard of Soffritto?
A fundamental step in Calabria traditional cooking is preparing a “Soffritto” with onions. It’s a technique used to build a rich, flavorful base for many dishes. The process starts by finely chopping the onion and sautéing it in a pan with extra virgin olive oil, often accompanied by carrots and celery. The onion is cooked slowly over low heat until it becomes translucent and slightly golden, releasing its natural sweetness and flavor.
The Tropea onion is especially popular for “Soffritto” due to its natural delicacy, which enhances even the simplest dishes capturing the warmth and essence of “Mediterranean cuisine”.
This method is used in a variety of recipes, such as ragù, soups, sauces, and risotto. Health Benefits of the Tropea Onion
In addition to being delicious, the Tropea onion is packed with health benefits, aids digestion, acts as a natural diuretic making it not only a tasty ingredient but also a healthy one.
Tropea onion where to buy
If you plan a special tour to Calabria you can buy fresh Tropea red onions, remember to store them in a cool, dry place to keep their properties intact. If you’d rather have them delivered right to your door, try our caramelized onions made from authentic Tropea red onions. You’ll never want to be without them!
Try now Pirri Elements caramelized onions made exclusively with Tropea red onions
