My grandmother always sticks cloves into an onion. When I found out why she did that, I was surprised because I'd never seen it before. Now I do it myself, and I love this trick. Let me explain why you should too. 👇

 

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At first glance, sticking cloves into an onion might seem like something out of an old cookbook. A slightly retro, almost decorative gesture. And yet, behind this rustic image lies a remarkably effective trick, passed down through generations. In the kitchen as well as at home, this simple combination has more than one trick up its sleeve… and might just surprise you.

The studded onion: a well-kept secret of French cuisine

If this practice intrigues you, know that it is far from being improvised. In France, it is called the "clouted onion": a peeled onion into which 4 to 8 whole cloves are inserted before being added to a stew.

Why make it so complicated? Actually, it's quite the opposite.

This technique allows for delicately scented:

• Chicken broth
• Vegetable soup
• A béchamel sauce
• A family stew

Instead of scattering the spices throughout the dish, the cloves release their aroma slowly and evenly during cooking. Before serving, simply remove the whole onion: no bits of spice to be found on the plate, only a subtle and warming flavor.

It's a bit like adding a base note to a perfume: you can't clearly distinguish it, but it changes everything.

Why does this duo work so well?

This marriage is no coincidence.

Onions naturally contain aromatic compounds that are gradually released during cooking. They provide a well-rounded and slightly sweet base.

Cloves, on the other hand, are rich in eugenol, the molecule responsible for their intense, spicy aroma. In high concentrations, it could quickly become overpowering. However, when inserted into an onion, its scent diffuses more gently.

The result: a controlled balance, neither too strong nor too subtle.

A natural air freshener for the home

What is less well known is that this tip goes beyond the culinary realm.

In the past, in some country houses, an onion studded with cloves was placed in the kitchen or pantry to reduce lingering odors.

How does it work?

The onion absorbs some of the ambient odors.
The cloves release a warm and spicy fragrance.

Without chemicals or aerosols, the air feels fresher and more pleasant. Of course, this doesn't replace proper ventilation, but for a temporary and natural solution, it's an interesting alternative.

A traditional insect repellent

Another little-known use: the smell of cloves is not appreciated by insects.

Placed near a window or door in summer, this preparation could help limit the presence of flies in kitchens of yesteryear.

Again, this is not a miracle solution, but a simple, economical method without aggressive substances.

How to make a studded onion at home?

 

Nothing could be simpler:

1. Take a medium onion, preferably peeled if you are using it in cooking.
2. Gently press 4 to 10 cloves into its surface, spacing them evenly for even diffusion.
3. Add it directly to your preparation and let it infuse throughout the cooking process, then remove it before serving.

For home use, place it in a small dish and replace it every one to two days to maintain its effectiveness.

Helpful tip:  if you're using it to flavor a dish, stick the cloves on only one side. This way you can easily see which area to remove.

What you need to know (and not believe)

This traditional method has sometimes been surrounded by exaggerated beliefs. Let's be clear: it does not replace good hygiene, adequate ventilation, or medical advice when needed.

Its strength lies in its simplicity, not in extraordinary promises.

Why are these old tips coming back into fashion?

In an age of sophisticated products and complex solutions, we are rediscovering the charm of simple gestures.

Inexpensive, easy to make, and grounded in common sense, this tip embodies a more thoughtful cuisine, more respectful of ingredients and less dependent on the superfluous.

Sometimes, the best ideas aren't the most modern, but those that have stood the test of time. A truly  natural trick  rooted in tradition, reminding us that  traditional French cuisine  is full of simple and effective solutions.