Why My French Grandmother Always Sticks Cloves into an Onion – And You Should Too!

If you’ve ever seen someone stick cloves into an onion, you might wonder what kind of magic is happening in their kitchen. For my French grandmother, this simple trick was a time-honored tradition that added depth, aroma, and rich flavor to many dishes. It may seem old-fashioned, but once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a culinary secret worth keeping!

What’s the Purpose of Sticking Cloves into an Onion?

In classic French cuisine, studding an onion with cloves is a technique known as “oignon piqué” (or “pricked onion”). It’s often used to infuse soups, stews, broths, and sauces with a delicate, aromatic warmth without overpowering the dish.

When the clove-infused onion is simmered, it releases subtle sweet, spicy, and earthy notes that enhance the overall taste of the dish. It’s a natural way to add richness to recipes without the need for artificial seasonings.

How to Make an Oignon Piqué (Clove-Studded Onion)

You’ll Need:

✅ 1 medium onion (yellow or white works best)
✅ 4-6 whole cloves
✅ (Optional) 1 bay leaf

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