An antioxidant that protects arteries from saturated fats. It can slow down cell aging and cure ailments like colds and flu.influence. But first of all, according to several scientific researches, among the benefits of red onion from Tropea we can also understand its preventive action against some types of cancer, first of all liver and to the ovaries. An elixir to be used with one recommendation to maximize its benefits: eat it raw, in a salad.

Origini

The Tropea onion has ancient origins. And we can consider it the most effective natural antibiotic Known since ancient times. By the Phoenicians, Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. All these populations have always used the Tropea onion more for its medicinal properties than for its pleasant culinary flavor, which was discovered later. From the Bourbon era, the onion became a product of excellence in southern Italian agriculture.

Where it is grown

The red onion of Tropea is a IGP cultivation (Protected Geographical Indication), and never more so is a label necessary to guarantee the product's authenticity. The Tropea red onion is grown exclusively on the mid-upper Tyrrhenian coast of Calabria, which includes several municipalities in the provinces of Catanzaro, Cosenza (primarily in the municipality of Amantea), and Vibo Valentia (particularly in the Nicotera area). Only in this area are the genetic, climatic, and soil factors that give the Tropea onion its specific organoleptic characteristics condensed, starting with its sweet flavor, elliptical shape, and red color.

How do you recognize the real Tropea onion?

The real Tropea onion can be recognized thanks to two fundamental elements: the shape and the pulp.It's neither round nor squat, but elliptical, resembling an egg. The bulbs of the Tropea onion are covered with a light, bright red "tunic," while the flesh is white and fleshy. Perfect eaten raw.

What is it good for?

I benefits of the Tropea onion They are comprehensive and affect our entire body. This is why the Phoenicians considered them one of the most important natural medicines. In particular, the Tropea onion is:

• Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial
• A natural antibiotic and sleep regulator
• Purifying and fluidifying
• Effective for colds, flu and pharyngitis
• Capable, especially if eaten raw, of raising good cholesterol (HDL) and lowering bad cholesterol (LDL)

Some research shows that Tropea onions also have some useful properties for preventing specific tumors, particularly those of the colon, liver, larynx, and ovaries.

Because it's good for the heart

Property

Tropea onions have just 20 calories per 100 grams. However, they contain:

• Iron
• Potassium
• Magnesium
• Vitamin C:
• Protein
• Polyphenols that slow down cell aging
• Quercetin which reduces free radicals
• Sulfates that reduce blood sugar

When to harvest

Tropea onions are harvested from the end of September to the end of MarchIf you consider shelf life and the possibility of keeping them for more than a month, we can say that Tropea onions are available almost year-round. Always choose a supplier who guarantees the product's provenance. The price shouldn't be less than 2 euros per kilo, and a braid of Tropea onions, which generally weigh more than two kilos, costs around 4,5 euros.

How it is preserved

The Tropea onion absorbs moisture quite easily and It should absolutely not be stored in the refrigerator. A cool place is enough, at a temperature between 4 and 10 degrees. The advice is to buy it in intertwined bunches, then hang them in the place you've chosen to store your onions: this way they can last even more than a month. In theory, Tropea onions can be frozen (in this case, sliced ​​and wrapped in aluminum foil), but we definitely don't recommend this.

The “raw” Tropea onion

There are many ways to enjoy Tropea onion, but the best is also the simplest. Eat it raw, accompanied only by a few leaves of green salad, some cherry tomatoes, the fresh basil, oregano, extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of salt. Enjoy it with a "fresella" and don't worry about your health. breath: the sweetness of this onion will allow you to distribute kisses without causing discomfort.

Recipes with Tropea onion

From cold pasta to fried rings, perfect for an aperitif. From jam to cod. Tropea onions can make all the difference in a very special dish, thanks to their sweet flavor that softens any dish. Here they are. A selection of the best recipes with Tropea onions which you can find on our website.

• Jam with Tropea onionEasy to prepare and ideal for accompanying savory cheeses.
• Mackerel with bay leaves and Tropea onionsA refined second course based on fish.
• Savory pie with Tropea onionsAppetizer or main course for a light dinner.
• Cod with Tropea onionsOne of the tastiest ways to cook cod.
• Fried Tropea onion ringsServe hot and crispy with an aperitif.
• Cold pasta with Tropea onionsA summer one-dish meal with the addition of goji berries.

How much can we eat?

Don't overdo it with Tropea red onions. For the right and effective dosage, free from side effects, we can trust the results of a study by the Mario Negri Institute in Milan. The study recommends two 50-gram portions of Tropea red onions per week. Preferably raw.

Controindicazioni

Le contraindications of the Tropea red onion are very few. If you don't have one digestion If you overdo it with red onions, you may experience additional problems with abdominal bloating and aerophagia. When handling onions in the kitchen, be careful not to put your fingers in your eyes: the irritation can be very uncomfortable. And in any case, dip the knife you use to cut onions in cold water: this will block the circulation of irritating gas. If you regularly take aspirin and lithium, talk to your doctor, as onions may interfere with these medications. Finally, don't forget that dogs and cats shouldn't touch onions: they could even lose their skin.

Read also:

• Asparagus: benefits, properties and uses
• Peas: Benefits, Uses, and Contraindications
• Ginger: properties, uses, and contraindications