My grandmother always puts cloves in onions – here’s why this French technique changes everything.

This technique gives soups, sauces, and stews a rich, aromatic depth that is difficult to replicate otherwise. The onion acts as a carrier, slowly and evenly releasing the intense essential oils of the clove into the liquid. The result is a complex flavor profile that distinguishes an amateur dish from a professional one.

The science of taste: why do cloves and onions go well together?

Cloves are among the most potent spices. They are renowned for their warm, slightly floral aroma. However, if you add them directly to a soup,