How to Cut Spring Onions, Green Onions & Scallions
How to cut spring onions, also known as green onions or scallions, are a versatile ingredient used in a variety of dishes. Their mild flavour and crisp texture make them a perfect addition to soups, salads, stir-fries, and even as garnishes. Whether you use them raw or cooked, they bring a fresh and vibrant touch to your meals.
Learning how to cut spring onions correctly can enhance their flavour and presentation. From thin rounds for soups to long strips for duck pancakes, the way you cut them can make a big difference. They’re easy to prepare and an essential ingredient in countless recipes around the world.
How to Cut Spring Onions: Step-by-Step Guide
- Wash the Spring Onions
Rinse the spring onions thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. - Trim the Ends
Use a sharp knife to trim off the root end (the small white tip) and any wilted or damaged parts of the green tops. - Decide How You Want to Cut Them
- For Rounds: Cut the spring onions crosswise into thin, even slices. These are great for garnishes, stir-fries, or soups.
- For Strips: Slice the spring onions lengthwise into thin strips. This is ideal for dishes like duck pancakes or salads.
- For Diagonal Slices: Hold your knife at an angle and cut diagonally for larger, more decorative pieces.
- Separate the Green and White Parts (Optional)
If your recipe calls for it, separate the green tops and white stems. The white part has a stronger flavor, while the green part is milder and works well as a garnish. - Store or Use Immediately
If not using right away, store the cut spring onions in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days.
With these steps, your spring onions will be perfectly prepped for any recipe!
Tips and Tricks for How to Cut Spring Onions
- Use a Sharp Knife
A sharp knife ensures clean cuts without bruising the delicate green tops or crushing the white stems. This helps maintain their texture and appearance. - Chill Before Cutting
If your spring onions feel a bit limp, soak them in ice-cold water for 10 minutes before cutting. This will refresh them and make slicing easier. - Cut Evenly for Uniform Cooking
Try to keep your slices or strips even in size. This ensures they cook evenly and look more appealing in your dishes. - Separate Green and White Parts When Cooking
The white part has a stronger, onion-like flavor, while the green tops are milder. Add the white stems early in cooking for flavor and the green tops at the end for freshness. - Angle Your Knife for Fancy Cuts
For a professional look, slice spring onions at a diagonal angle. This style is great for garnishes or Asian-style dishes. - Don’t Waste the Green Tops
Even if the recipe only calls for the white stems, save the green tops! They’re perfect for sprinkling over salads, soups, or baked potatoes. - Store Properly for Freshness
Keep uncut spring onions in a plastic bag or wrapped in a damp paper towel in the fridge. For cut spring onions, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
With these tips, you can make the most out of your spring onions and take your cooking to the next level!
FAQs
Which part of the spring onion do you use?
You can use both the white stem and green tops. The white part is stronger in flavor, while the green tops are milder and perfect for garnishing.
How do you cut a spring onion?
Wash and trim the ends, then slice into rounds, strips, or diagonals depending on your recipe. You can also separate the white and green parts for specific uses.
How much do you cut off spring onions?
Trim the root end and any damaged or wilted parts of the green tops. Usually, only a small portion is discarded.
Do you have to peel spring onions?
No, you don’t need to peel them. Just wash them thoroughly and trim as needed before cutting.
In which recipes can we use spring onions?
Spring onions are great in fried rice, stir-fries, soups, omelets, salads, and as a topping for dishes like tacos and baked potatoes.
What are the benefits of spring onions?
Spring onions are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and contain antioxidants that support immune health. They’re also low in calories and great for digestion.
How many calories are in one spring onion?
One spring onion typically contains about 5-7 calories, making it a healthy and low-calorie addition to meals.
Knowing how to cut spring onions is a simple yet essential skill that can elevate your cooking. Whether you’re slicing them for soups, salads, or garnishes, the right cutting technique ensures they look great and enhance the flavour of your dishes. With a little practice, you’ll master this versatile ingredient and add a fresh touch to your meals effortlessly!
You can also learn How to Cut Dragon Fruit.
