Cocktail onion

Cocktail Onion

A cocktail onion is a small, pearl-sized onion that is typically pickled and used as a garnish in cocktails, most notably in a Gibson.

History

The use of cocktail onions dates back to the early 20th century, when they were first used as a garnish in cocktails. The exact origin of the cocktail onion is unknown, but it is believed to have been first used in the United States.

Production

Cocktail onions are typically made from small pearl onions. These onions are harvested when they are still young, which gives them their small size. After harvesting, the onions are peeled and then pickled in a solution of vinegar and salt, sometimes with the addition of sugar or other flavorings. The pickling process gives the onions their distinctive tangy flavor.

Use in Cocktails

Cocktail onions are most commonly used as a garnish in a Gibson, a variation of the classic martini. In a Gibson, the cocktail onion is skewered on a cocktail pick and placed in the glass. The onion adds a savory element to the cocktail and complements the flavors of the gin and vermouth.

Cocktail onions can also be used in other cocktails, such as a Bloody Mary or a Manhattan, or in non-alcoholic drinks like a Virgin Mary.

See Also

• List of onion dishes
• List of pickled foods
• Garnish