Spring onion looks like a small leek and grows up to 3 dm (30 cm) tall. It does not form a bulb but consists of hollow stems and leaves. The lower part that grows underground is white and the leaves above ground are green. There is also a red spring onion. The species is thought to originate from Asia. The closely related salad onion/green onion is sometimes included here too. The onion is harvested early.
Weight: Around 30 grams each.
Flavour: Spring onion has a mild onion flavour.
Alternatives: Leek and other milder onion varieties.
Sales: Sold fresh all year round in shops.
Store preferably cold in the fridge at +2 to +4°C, ideally in a plastic bag so it does not dry out. Keeps for a few weeks.
PS: The English terms differ slightly from place to place. Spring onion is used in England, green onion in the USA.
USES
Spring onion is eaten raw or cooked. It can be used like other onions, but is mostly found in salads and soups, and is widely stir-fried in Thai and Chinese cooking.
