Produce Briefs...
Banana Flowers
Exotic banana flowers are the red-orange to deep purple, pointed, compact heads at the tip end of a forming bunch of bananas. Each bud has large outer petals that protect groups of small white flowers
Green Shishito Chile Peppers
Japanese peppers are mildly spicy and most often prepared cooked. Saute peppers in olive oil, over high heat, until they just begin to blister- serve hot, sprinkled with sea salt.
Seasons/Availability
Planting begins in September and the seeds mature during the winter. Fresh Vidalia onions grown in Georgia are available from April through late June.
Current Facts
Vidalia onions are a short day, sweet onion variety. Short day varieties are best suited to warm, Southern climates with milder winters and longer days of sunlight in the spring and summer, when they are harvested. Short day varieties are considered fresh onions and although the Vidalia can be stored for up to six month in controlled air storage conditions, they are best suited to be stored and eaten within three months.
Description/Taste
The Vidalia is considered the sweetest onion variety. Vidalia onions are rounded with flat bottoms, and have a copper-gold, thin skin with milky, white flesh. Their delicate sweetness can be attributed to the region's mild climate, sandy and low sulfur soil, exclusive seed varieties and farming practices.
Applications
Vidalia onions can be used in all onion preparations because of their high sugar content. Peel onions, cut off the top third and remove the interior, then stuff with rice or meat and bake. Caramelize diced vidalia onions and fold into sour cream and cream cheese and use as onion dip for vegetables or chips. Peel and slice onions into rings, then roast until browned and softened, then toss with grated parmesan cheese. Thinly slice onions and cook down with diced apricots and whole grain mustard, then use the jam as a spread for cheeses or meats. Vidalia onions will last up to 6 months in cold storage.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Vidalia onions are the official state vegetable of Georgia. Each Spring, Vidalia hosts a five day festival celebrating its native onion and its culinary attributes.
Geography/History
The Vidalia onion was first cultivated in 1931 by Moses Coleman in Toombs County Georgia. Its growing area is defined by a 20-county region of Georgia per legislation passed in Georgia in 1986. The name “Vidalia” had also been trademarked and is still owned by the Georgia Department of Agriculture.
Featured Restaurants
Restaurants currently purchasing this product as an ingredient for their menu.
| Avant | San Diego CA | 858-675-8505 |
| West Steak and Seafood | Carlsbad CA | 760-930-9100 |
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Vidalia Onions. One
is easiest, three is harder.
