Confused about the difference between scallions vs. green onions? You’re not alone!
These slender, leafy greens provide a fresh touch and bright aroma to different cuisines worldwide.
They bring a burst of color and flavor to salads, soups, and stir-fries.
But how do they differ from each other? Prepare to demystify the confusion between scallions and green onions.
Plus, learn a few tips on selecting high-quality vegetables at your local supermarket.
Scallions vs. green onions: are they the same, or do subtle differences set them apart? Read on!
Scallions vs. Green Onions (What’s the Difference?)
Did you know that scallions and green onions are like undercover agents in the vegetable world?
They’re the same veggie but go by different names!
These versatile veggies are real flavor chameleons! With their mild onion taste, they can sneak into various dishes.
No matter the recipe, they add a delicate aroma without stealing the spotlight.
The confusion between the terms comes from regional differences in the English language.
“Scallions” is more commonly used in some regions, while “green onions” is more common in others.
Regardless of the name used, they refer to the same vegetable.
These greens have a slender white bulb at the base and long green leaves extending from it.
So, the next time you cook with these incredible veggies, remember they are the same.
They’re on a mission to make your culinary creations more fun, flavorful, and colorful!
What Are Spring Onions, Then?
Scallions, green onions, and spring onions might all sound the same, but they are not.
Scallions and green onions are the same things, yes.
But spring onions are another kind of veggie.
Green onions, also known as scallions, are immature onions harvested before the bulb has fully developed.
The green stalk has a milder oniony flavor that’s perfect for salads, garnishes, and various dishes.
Meanwhile, spring onions are a type of onion that’s harvested later than green onions.
The bulb of spring onion is usually larger and has a rounder shape.
Spring onions can also grow red or white bulbs milder than a fully-grown onion.
The stalks are stronger and more aromatic than green onions, perfect for stir-fries and sautés.
The main difference between green onions and spring onions is their stage of development and flavor intensity.
Green onions (scallions) have a milder flavor and a smaller, underdeveloped bulb.
Spring onions have a slightly stronger flavor and a larger, partially developed bulb.
How to Buy Scallions or Green Onions
How do you make sure you’re buying fresh veggies?
Here are some tips for choosing the best scallions and green onions:
1. Check the leaves: Look for scallions and green onions with firm, bright green leaves. Avoid any with wilted, yellowing or brown leaves.
2. Examine the bulbs: The bulbs of scallions and green onions should be firm, white, and free from blemishes or discolorations.
3. Smell: Give them a sniff. Fresh scallions or green onions should have a mild, fresh aroma.
4. Go for organic: Choose organic scallions and green onions to avoid exposure to harmful pesticides.
5. Storage: Wrap the green onions in a damp paper towel and place them inside a plastic bag. Place them in the crisper, and be sure to keep the plastic bag moist to avoid wilting.
Dishes to Try with Scallions or Green Onions
Scallions, also known as green onions, can be used in various dishes. They add a mild, fresh onion flavor and a pop of color.
Here are some dishes you can try with scallions or green onions:
- Stir-fries – When cooked, scallions become milder and sweeter. It blends well with other ingredients and enhances stir-fried dishes’ overall taste.
- Soups – They add a pleasant crunch and a vibrant pop of color to rich, heartwarming soups.
- Salads – Green onions add a distinct, refreshing flavor and crisp texture to salads.
- Sandwiches – This veggie can complement various sandwich ingredients, such as meats, cheeses, vegetables, and spreads.
- Sauces – Spruce up your main dishes with bright-tasting sauces featuring green onions.
How to Regrow Green Onions or Scallions at Home?
Regrowing store-bought green onions at home is a sustainable way for a continuous supply of fresh veggies.
Follow these steps to regrow green onions from store-bought ones:
Save the bulbs: When using store-bought green onions, do not use the entire plant. Cut off the green tops, leaving about 1-2 inches of the white bulb with the roots attached.
Choose a container: Select a container or jar that can comfortably hold the green onion bulbs without overcrowding. A wide-mouthed jar or small glass is ideal.
Add water: Fill the container with enough water to submerge the roots of the green onion bulbs. Be sure the green tops are not submerged.
Place in sunlight: Put the container in a sunny spot, such as a windowsill or countertop. Green onions thrive in sunlight, and green shoots will emerge from the bulb.
Monitor water levels: Keep an eye on the water level and change it every couple of days. If the water looks cloudy or dirty, change it immediately.
Plant: When the new shoots grow 4 to 5 inches long, transfer them to the ground or a pot.
Harvest: Snip off the leaves all the way to the ground, and it’ll continue to grow fresh shoots. Use them for your dishes.
