An Onion

[Saffron]

Just the other day I came across an article that referred to an onion as an herb and it is classified as a modified leaf...now that caught my attention, because I have always thought of an onoin as simply a vegetable.

So, if an onion is an herb...than what is the distinction between the two. So, I did a bit of digging and the only difference that I can distinguish is that an herb is usually used to season other foods, or used as a remedy for an ailment.

Whereas a vegetable is usually eaten in greater bulk and adds substance to a meal rather than to flavor or enhance a dish.

Do you think that's about right?

 

[question]

Hrm, good question.

I have never thought as an onion being an herb. Maybe the wild onions with the green tops could be one. I can see why an onion might live in both worlds because it is a vegetable, adds substance, and also adds flavor the way a herb or spice might.

 

[blueaura]

That's funny that you asked--I was wondering the same thing earlier. I have the same question about garlic, which is also part of the onion family.