When your onions have gone to seed, also known as bolting, it’s not the end of the world. In fact, you can still harvest and enjoy them. Bolted onions may not store well like their non-bolted counterparts, but they are still perfectly edible.
One important thing to note is that bolted onions tend to have a stronger and more intense flavor compared to regular onions. Some people actually prefer this bolder taste, so it can be a delightful surprise!
To harvest bolted onions, you’ll need to dig them up from the ground. Use a garden fork or shovel to gently loosen the soil around the bulbs. Be careful not to damage the bulbs in the process. Once the bulbs are exposed, you can carefully lift them out of the ground. It’s always exciting to see the results of your gardening efforts!
After harvesting, it’s best to use bolted onions promptly. They won’t last as long as onions that haven’t bolted, so it’s recommended to eat them right away. You can incorporate them into various dishes, such as soups, stir-fries, or roasted vegetable medleys. Their robust flavor can add a delightful punch to your culinary creations.
If you find yourself with an abundance of bolted onions and you can’t consume them all at once, another option is to make chutney. Chutney is a delicious condiment made from a combination of fruits, vegetables, spices, and vinegar. It can be a great way to preserve and enjoy your bolted onions for a longer period of time.
To make onion chutney, you can start by sautéing the chopped bolted onions in a pan with some oil until they become soft and caramelized. Then, add in other ingredients like diced tomatoes, apples, spices (such as ginger, garlic, and chili), sugar, and vinegar. Let the mixture simmer and cook down until it reaches a thick and jam-like consistency. Once cooled, you can store the chutney in sterilized jars and enjoy it as a condiment with various dishes.
While bolted onions may not store well like their non-bolted counterparts, they can still be harvested and enjoyed. Dig them up from the ground, savor their robust flavor, and incorporate them into your meals. If you have an abundance, consider making onion chutney to preserve their deliciousness. Don’t let bolting onions go to waste – embrace their uniqueness and savor the flavors they offer!
