Oikeaönilla

Oikeaönilla, also known as the right-handed onion, is a variety of the common onion (Allium cepa) that is cultivated for its larger size and sweeter flavor compared to other onion varieties. The term "oikeaönilla" is Finnish, translating to "true onion" or "right-handed onion," reflecting its preference for growing in the right-hand side of the garden bed, as it tends to grow larger and more robustly in this position.

The right-handed onion is typically planted in the spring and harvested in the late summer or early fall, depending on the climate and growing conditions. It is well-suited for growing in full sun and well-drained soil. The onions are harvested by digging them up from the ground, and they can be stored for several months in a cool, dark place.

The right-handed onion is valued for its culinary uses, particularly in Finnish cuisine, where it is often used in soups, stews, and sauces. Its larger size and sweeter flavor make it a popular choice for both cooking and preserving. In addition to its culinary uses, the right-handed onion is also used in traditional medicine and folk remedies for its purported health benefits, such as improving digestion and boosting the immune system.

Despite its name, the right-handed onion is not actually right-handed in the biological sense. The term "right-handed" refers to the onion's preference for growing in the right-hand side of the garden bed, rather than any inherent handedness of the plant itself. The right-handed onion is a popular variety of onion that is widely cultivated and enjoyed for its unique flavor and culinary versatility.