My French grandmother always sticks cloves into an onion. When I finally found out why she did it, I was shocked — I’d never seen anyone do that before. Now I do it myself, and honestly, I’m obsessed with this kitchen trick.

Here’s why you should put cloves in an onion:

Cloves may not be the most commonly used spice in the kitchen, but they have remarkable properties that shine when used correctly.

Most people know cloves as something you add to marinades or warm drinks like mulled wine to give them a unique aroma. But in reality, their potential goes far beyond that — especially if you take a page from the secrets of French cuisine.

The French are masters at turning food into art, creating dishes that are rich in flavor and aroma. In their cooking, every small detail matters.

During autumn and winter, when fresh herbs become harder to find, they often rely on a clever alternative known as “oignon clouté,” which literally means “onion studded with cloves.” The name alone sounds intriguing, doesn’t it?