Bermuda Onion Vs Red Onion: What’s The Difference?
When it comes to onions, there are two types that reign supreme: the Bermuda onion and the red onion.
Both have their own unique flavor and texture, but deciding which one is better will depend on you.
Keep reading to learn more about Bermuda onions and red onions before making your decision.
What is special about Bermuda onions?
Bermuda onions are a variety of onions that have been cultivated a long time ago on Bermuda island not the Bermuda Triangle.
These onions often come in white or yellow color and are known for their sweet but mild flavor.
Therefore, Bermuda onions are perfect for salads or as a topping on burgers and sandwiches.
However, Bermuda onions are not likely to be sold on the market today and they are usually replaced by other varieties of sweet onions from different regions of the United States.
What is special about red onions?
Red onions are a special variety in the onion family.
They have deep purple-reddish skin that can be used for dying and white-purple flesh.
Red onions have a strong oniony flavor, therefore, they are often pickled or cooked to reduce that potent taste rather than being eaten raw.
They are also used as a garnish in culinary art thanks to their vibrant look.
What are the differences between Bermuda onions and red onions?
There are numerous differences between Bermuda onions and red onions.
The table below can help unravel all the unique features of each type of onion to make it easier for you to decide between the two.
| Bermuda onions | Red onions | |
| Origin | The Bermuda island | Tropea, Italy |
| Color | White and yellow | Purple-reddish skin with white-purple flesh |
| Flavor | Sweeter and milder | Stronger |
| Nutrient value | Have fewer nutrients with poorer amounts | Richer in vitamins and minerals |
| Common uses | As a topping for burgers, sandwiches As an ingredient for salads | Often pickled or cooked Used in culinary art thanks to their vibrant look |
| Popularity | Less popular on the market, often replaced by other types of sweet onions | More popular |
What are the similarities between Bermuda onions and red onions?
Besides the differences between Bermuda onions and red onions, they also share some similarities, as listed below:
Bermuda onions and red onions are members of the onion family
Firstly, Bermuda onions and red onions both come from the onion family.
Therefore, they grow and are harvested the same way.
Bermuda onions and red onions both deliver an onion-like flavor
Another thing in common between these two types of onions is that they both have the flavor of onions, in general.
Although red onions don’t have the sweetness that the Bermuda variety has, when eating both of them, you can feel the same oniony flavor lingering in your mouth.
Bermuda onions and red onions are both nutritious ingredients
The third similarity between Bermuda onions and red onions is that they are both very nutritious.
As already mentioned, red onions are considered the healthiest type of onion and they are the winner in most nutrient categories.
However, both are rich in vitamins from the B vitamin group, vitamin C, folate, potassium, and antioxidants that benefit our health in different ways.
Bermuda onions and red onions can be used interchangeably sometimes
The last thing in common between Bermuda onions and red onions is that they can be used the same way in cooking sometimes.
Since red onions have a stronger flavor, they are often cooked or garnished.
Meanwhile, Bermuda onions are sweeter and milder, so they are great to be eaten raw.
However, they can be pickled or cooked in numerous ways like stewing, sauteing, or roasting.
Which one is better?
Red onions have been known as the strongest-flavored onion, so if you prefer the extra kick of onion in your recipes, this will be a great option.
Otherwise, Bermuda onions that come with a milder and sweeter taste will be the way to go for those who don’t want the oniony flavor to overpower all the other ingredients.
Once you’ve decided on your favorite type of onion, be sure to add it to your grocery list for next time.