Kompas.com – Shallots and white may already be familiar in our ears because it is usually in the kitchen as a spice of cooking.
But besides garlic, it turns out there are also black onions or Black Garlic. Then, what is black onion?
What is black onion?
Black is fresh garlic that has gone through the maturation process using low temperatures and high humidity.
During the process that lasted a few weeks, called the reaction of Maillard, cloves of garlic changed color to typical black. This onion becomes softer, chewy, and sweeter.
Also Read: What Is Black and the Difference with Ordinary Garlic?
Although it looks like a new phenomenon, in fact black onions have been used for centuries. Its origins are unclear, but it has been widely known in Asia since ancient times.
Black onion vs ordinary garlic
The fermentation process changes the texture, taste, odor, and color of garlic. This onion becomes softer, sticky, and springy, with a lighter taste.
Because it contains less Allicin (Sulfur compound) compared to fresh garlic, black onions do not have a strong odor and do not cause the smell of onions that are common after we eat raw garlic.
Black Onion taste black onion has a taste that is considered tasty with a touch of sweet sweet taste.
The taste is often equated with molasses, balm vinegar, and licorice. It feels rich in umami (deep savory taste) and sometimes used as a substitute for miso.
When compared to raw garlic, black onions contain less allicin, compounds that provide some health benefits of garlic.
However, black onions contain more compounds called S-Allylcysteine (SAC), which helps the body absorb Allicin.
Also read: How to Make Delicious Onion Sambal, As I Restaurant Geprek Chicken Restaurant
The combination of this, coupled with a higher antioxidant content, is believed to have many health benefits possessed by black onions.
Although deeper research is still needed, several studies show that black onions have potential health benefits, including:
1. Increase immunity
By reducing inflammation, antioxidants in black onions can help improve the immune system.
.Antioxidants prevent oxidative stress caused by free radicals, which can damage cells. A healthy immune system helps the body fight infections and bacteria more effectively.
