GOM Chapter 19: A welcome visitor and know your onions!

In GOM 7 I reported my hummingbird heaven and since that magical time, whenever possible, I've been present and correct on morning stakeouts around 11am. Patience rewarded at last, and this time I had witnesses - the GOM! In all honesty I can't say it was exactly 11am, nor that it was the same hummingbird - I'd like to say it was my original bird popping in to say hello but I think that's taking the realms of fantasy a little too far – hey, who cares, a morning treat – the sound from the beating of the wings is remarkable all the more so because the bird is so tiny, there's no better way to start the day.

Now for a little onion history - all hail the Vidalia onion.

There's a place called “Vidalia” in Georgia. The city is known as the “Sweet Onion City” and each spring heralds the Vidalia Onion Festival. First grown in 1931 and expected to be a hot onion crop it was a surprise that they were sweet! It is pale yellow, slightly squat, has a crunchy texture and better yet a sweet flavour with very little bite.

My first introduction to the Vidalia onion was years ago in Portland, Oregon. For those among us who don't like the archetypal onion ring, soggy and disgusting, please note that rings made from Vidalia onions are a unique experience and would convert the most sceptical. Since my first introduction in Portland every place I've visited in the USA has always included a search (mainly on restaurant menus and the markets) for the said vegetable, with little success.

In recent years visiting this wondrous place I've been able to get Vidalia onions and use them all the time, raw or cooked. I have driven my grumpy old man friend bonkers – he's an excellent and efficient shopper, consequently when the GOM are out and about on a quest of their own, they shop en route. If onions are on the list, it is specific, look for Vidalia. I can also reveal that when I mentioned my visit to “Edna's spice stall in GOM: Chapter 4” I bought granulated Vidalia onions and Vidalia onion spice mix – another result!

In recent times I've found Vidalia products, for example, a relish which is fantastic either as an accompaniment to BBQ or in that inimitable British favourite, a cheese sandwich – the simple things in life are the best. There's a selection of vinaigrettes, marinades and dressings not to mention a batter mix for the blooming onion (mentioned in GOM Chapter 12 The Outback).

You never know, on your travels, when you might come across a Vidalia onion and then you'll be glad you've read this potted history!