How to Cook Fresh Pearl Onions

Ingredients

- Fresh pearl onions

- Olive oil or butter

- Salt and pepper, to taste

- Optional: Herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Preparation:

- Rinse the fresh pearl onions thoroughly under cold water to remove dirt.

2. Peeling:

- Peeling pearl onions can be a bit tedious, but there's a trick to make it easier.

- Bring a pot of water to a boil.

- Once boiling, add the pearl onions and let them blanch for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

- Drain the onions and immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

- The skins should now slip off easily when you pinch or gently squeeze the onions.

3. Cooking Method 1: Sautéing

- Heat some olive oil or butter in a pan over medium heat.

- Add the peeled pearl onions and sauté for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and brown slightly.

- Season with salt and pepper to taste.

- Optional: Add some chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.

4. Cooking Method 2: Roasting

- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

- Toss the peeled pearl onions with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

- Spread the seasoned onions on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

5. Serving:

- Once cooked, the pearl onions can be served as a side dish or used in various recipes.

- They pair well with grilled meats, poultry, fish, or salads.

Tips:

- If you don't have time to blanch and peel the pearl onions, you can also leave the skins on and simply trim the root end. Cooking time may be slightly longer.

- For a sweeter taste, add a little bit of honey or brown sugar to the pan while sautéing.

- Pearl onions can also be added to soups, stews, and casseroles for a flavorful addition.

Remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size of your pearl onions and your personal preference for tenderness. Enjoy your freshly cooked pearl onions as a delicious side or ingredient in your favorite dishes!