Glazed Pearl Onions
Glazed Pearl Onions are a classic side dish featuring small, whole onions that are cooked until tender and coated in a sweet, savory, and often buttery glaze. The dish typically uses pearl onions, butter, sugar or honey, and sometimes vinegar or stock, and is a staple in European and American cuisine, particularly during holidays. The cooking process caramelizes the natural sugars in the onions, creating a rich, flavorful coating that complements the mild, sweet taste of the vegetable.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Glazed Pearl Onions are relatively low in calories, with a typical serving of about 1/2 cup containing roughly 80-120 calories, depending on the amount of butter and sugar used. They are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, and while they contain some carbohydrates from the onions and glaze, they are not high in fat or protein, making them a light yet flavorful addition to meals.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Carbs | 22 g |
| Fat | 3.5 g |
| Fiber | 2.5 g |
| Sugar | 14 g |
| Sodium | 380 mg |
| Potassium | 210 mg |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Folate | 20 µg |
| Manganese | 0.3 mg |
| Calcium | 40 mg |
| Iron | 0.6 mg |
| Phosphorus | 30 mg |
Per 1 cup (160 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, glazed pearl onions are often associated with holiday feasts, particularly in the United States and Europe, where they are served as a side dish alongside roasts and other festive foods. Nutritionally, they are unique because the glazing process enhances the natural sweetness of the onions while preserving their nutritional benefits, making them a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into a diet.
