My grandmother always puts cloves in the onion and here’s why

• Unlike loose spices, which can be difficult to fish out of a pot, an onion studded with cloves can be easily removed before serving. This ensures the dish gets the benefit of the clove’s flavor without leaving behind sharp, inedible bits.

3. Aesthetic and Practical

• Sticking cloves into an onion is visually appealing and keeps the spices contained. It also prevents the tiny cloves from sinking to the bottom of the pot or getting lost in the dish.

How Cloves Enhance Dishes

Cloves are a warm, sweet, and slightly spicy spice commonly used in both savory and sweet recipes. Their unique flavor profile makes them a favorite in:

• Soups and Broths: Cloves add depth and warmth to broths, especially chicken or beef stock.
• Stews and Braises: They complement hearty dishes like beef stew or Moroccan tagines.
• Pickling and Preserving: Cloves are often used in pickling brines for their aromatic qualities.
• Holiday Dishes: Cloves are a staple in spiced desserts (like gingerbread) and mulled beverages (like cider or wine).

When paired with onion, cloves enhance the natural sweetness and savoriness of the dish, creating a balanced and aromatic base.

How to Use Cloves in an Onion

Using this technique is simple and versatile. Here’s how to do it:

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Choose Your Onion: A medium-sized yellow or white onion works best, as it has a mild flavor that won’t compete with the cloves.
2. Prepare the Cloves: Use whole dried cloves (not ground cloves). You’ll typically need 4–6 cloves per onion, depending on the size of the dish.
3. Insert the Cloves: Pierce the pointed ends of the cloves into the onion. Space them evenly around the onion for even flavor distribution.
4. Add to Your Dish: Place the clove-studded onion into your pot of soup, stew, broth, or sauce. Let it simmer with the other ingredients.
5. Remove Before Serving: Once the dish is cooked, simply remove the onion and discard it.

Recipes That Benefit from Clove-Studded Onions

Here are some classic dishes where this technique shines:

1. Homemade Stock or Broth

• Add a clove-studded onion to chicken, beef, or vegetable stock for a warm, aromatic undertone.

2. Mulled Wine or Cider

• Simmer a clove-studded onion with citrus fruits, cinnamon sticks, and star anise for a festive holiday drink.

3. Borscht or Vegetable Soup

• Use a clove-studded onion to add depth to Eastern European beet-based soups or hearty vegetable broths.

4. Pickling Brine

• Include a clove-studded onion in jars of homemade pickles for a touch of spice and sweetness.

5. Slow-Cooked Stews

• Add one to beef bourguignon, coq au vin, or lamb stew for a subtle layer of warmth.

Tips for Success

• Use Sparingly: Cloves are potent, so start with just a few and adjust to taste.
• Pair Wisely: Cloves pair well with cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and bay leaves, but avoid using them with overly delicate herbs like dill or parsley.
• Experiment: Try this technique with other aromatics, like garlic or orange peels, for a unique twist.

Why This Trick Has Stood the Test of Time

The tradition of studding onions with cloves reflects the wisdom of generations past. It’s a simple yet effective way to control the intensity of strong spices while adding layers of flavor to a dish. Whether you’re making a comforting pot of soup or crafting a festive holiday drink, this method ensures your food is infused with warmth and aroma without being overpowered.

Conclusion: A Timeless Culinary Hack

Your grandmother’s habit of sticking cloves into an onion is more than just a nostalgic cooking trick—it’s a practical and flavorful technique that has stood the test of time. By using this method, you can elevate your dishes with subtle spice and aroma while maintaining balance and control. Next time you’re in the kitchen, try this timeless hack and experience the magic of clove-infused flavor for yourself!

Have you tried this trick before? Share your favorite recipes or tips—we’d love to hear how you use cloves in your cooking! 🍲✨