When it comes to harvesting Egyptian walking onions, you have the flexibility to pick them at various stages of growth depending on your preferences and culinary needs. The different parts of the plant, including the bulbs, shoots, flowers, and bulblets, can all be harvested and enjoyed in different ways. Let’s explore each stage of growth and when it’s best to pick them.
1. Harvesting Bulbs (Fall):
In the fall, when the leaves of the walking onions start to dry and turn yellow, it’s a good time to harvest the bulbs. These bulbs can be used similarly to leeks or regular onions. Gently dig around the base of the plant and lift it out of the ground, being careful not to damage the bulbs. Allow them to cure for a few days in a warm, well-ventilated area before using or storing them.
2. Harvesting Shoots (Year-round):
The shoots of Egyptian walking onions can be harvested throughout the year. When the shoots are young and tender, they can be used like scallions or green onions. Simply cut the shoots about an inch above the ground, leaving the bulbs and roots in place. This way, the plant will continue to produce new shoots for future harvests. The shoots can be added to salads, stir-fries, soups, or used as a garnish for various dishes.
3. Harvesting Flowers (Spring):
When the walking onions enter their flowering stage in the spring, you can harvest the flower stalks and use them similarly to chive blossoms. The flower stalks are long and cylindrical, with small purple or white flowers on top. Snip the stalks just above the ground and use the flowers as a decorative element in salads, omelets, or other dishes. The flowers have a mild onion flavor and add a pop of color to your culinary creations.
4. Harvesting Bulblets (Summer):
During the summer months, the walking onions produce small bulblets at the top of their flower stalks. These bulblets can be harvested and used like shallots or small onions. Wait until the bulblets have formed and are still green and firm. You can gently separate them from the flower stalks and use them fresh or store them for later use. They can be a great addition to sauces, dressings, or roasted vegetable dishes.
Personal Experience:
I have grown Egyptian walking onions in my garden for several years, and I enjoy the versatility they offer in terms of harvesting. I find that picking the bulbs in the fall provides me with a good supply of onions for cooking and storing. Throughout the year, I regularly harvest the shoots for adding a fresh onion flavor to my dishes. In the spring, the flowering stage adds beauty to my garden and provides me with chive-like flowers to enhance the visual appeal of my meals. Lastly, the bulblets in the summer are a delightful addition to my culinary experiments.
Egyptian walking onions can be harvested at different stages of growth to suit your culinary needs. Whether you prefer to use the bulbs, shoots, flowers, or bulblets, each part of the plant offers a unique flavor and can be incorporated into various dishes. Enjoy the flexibility and abundance that these walking onions provide throughout the year!
