Relaxed with Onion Soup

What would you choose as a reward after working hard all day?  

 

There are probably quite a few people who would say "eat something delicious!" While there are various methods, by swapping out that "delicious thing" for ingredients with relaxing effects, your hard-earned reward can become something pleasing for both your mind and body. 

Today, I'd like to write about the mental benefits of the familiar ingredient onion, and its impact on our minds and bodies.

 

You often see new onions at the supermarket this time of year, don't you? 

 

There are two types sold - new onions and regular onions. How do they differ?

 

 

[Differences Between New Onions and Regular Onions]

 

New onions are shipped immediately after harvesting, so they have thin, soft skins and are high in moisture content. As a result, they are less pungent, and you can taste their sweetness when eaten raw, making them perfect for salads or marinades.

 

On the other hand, regular onions are dried for a set period after harvesting, resulting in thicker skins and a stronger pungent flavour. This allows their sweetness to increase when cooked, making them suitable for stewed dishes or stir-fries.

 

 

[Onion Season]  

 

While onion peak seasons vary by region, new onions are generally in season from spring through early summer.

Regular onions are in season from autumn through winter.

Eating onions during their peak season allows you to enjoy them at their most nutritious and delicious.

 

 

[Nutritional Value of Onions]

Quercetin: A powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce stress.

Vitamin C: Strengthens immune function and is effective for preventing colds and recovering from fatigue.  

Vitamin B6: Aids in the production of neurotransmitters, supporting mood stability.

Dietary Fibre: Assists digestion and improves intestinal environment.

 

[Other Vegetables that Go Well with Onions]

 

Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, a source of vitamin A that strengthens the immune system.

Celery: Rich in dietary fibre and vitamin K, aiding digestion and supporting bone health.

Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene, a potent antioxidant that supports cardiovascular health.  

Spinach: Rich in iron and folate, helping prevent aneamia.

 

 

[Vegan Friendly: Delicious Onion Soup Recipe]

 

Ingredients:

- Onions: 4 (thinly sliced)

- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp

- Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)

- Vegetable Broth: 6 cups

- Thyme: 1 tsp

- Bay Leaf: 1

- Salt: To taste

- Pepper: To taste

- Vegan Cheese: To taste (optional)

 

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and add the thinly sliced onions. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and caramelised, about 30 minutes.

2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 more minutes.

3. Add the vegetable broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with vegan cheese if desired.

 

As I briefly mentioned in a previous vitamin B12 article, you can also sprinkle on some nutritional yeast in place of vegan cheese. While there are store-bought vegan cheeses available, you can also make your own.

 

 

※The image was made by AI