Since childhood, I’ve watched my French grandmother perform a curious ritual in the kitchen. She sticks cloves into an onion and either leaves it on the table or drops it into a simmering pot. Intrigued, I finally asked her why she did this. Her answer left me speechless!

An Age-Old Trick with Amazing Benefits
My grandmother explained that this practice isn’t just an old habit—it’s a traditional technique with multiple benefits passed down through generations.

A Natural Flavor Booster
When an onion pierced with cloves is added to a dish (like broth, stew, or sauce), it releases a rich and complex aroma. The cloves, known for their warm, slightly sweet spice, perfectly complement the onion’s depth, creating an exquisite and refined taste.

A Natural Air Freshener
Placing an onion with cloves in the kitchen helps neutralize unpleasant odors—especially strong smells like fish or frying oil. My grandmother often keeps one near the stove and swears it purifies the air naturally.

A Shield Against Germs and Illnesses
Both onions and cloves are known for their antibacterial and antiviral properties. In the past, people used this technique to ward off infections and cleanse the air in their homes. Even today, some place an onion with cloves in a room during flu season to help prevent sickness!

A Natural Insect Repellent
Did you know this trick also works to keep mosquitoes and flies away? My grandmother places a clove-studded onion on the table in summer, and it effectively repels insects without using chemicals.

A Tradition Passed Through Generations
My grandmother told me that she learned this method from her own mother and grandmother, who had been using it for decades. Today, I carry on this tradition, and I’m still amazed at how well it works!

So next time you see an onion and some cloves in your kitchen, try this simple yet powerful trick. You’ll be surprised at how effective it is!