Vidalia Onion Committee Welcomes 2022 Season With Kentucky Derby; Cliff Riner, Mike Anderson, and Kenneth Hardiman Comment
VIDALIA, GA - Saddle up, my friends, because sweet onions have once again earned a well-deserved spot on the menu of the Kentucky Derby. The beloved Vidalia® onion will be featured in several dishes on the official on-site and At Home menus for the event.
“We’re proud to announce our continued partnership with the Kentucky Derby this year, once again bringing together two ‘rites of spring,’” said Cliff Riner, Chairman of the Vidalia Onion Committee (VOC). “It’s an exciting time of year for us as we ship Vidalia onions to grocery store shelves for all to enjoy in their spring and summer recipes.”
Some of the dishes soon to be uplifted by the popular variety include:
- Seared Chicken Breast with Pancetta, Vidalia Onion, and Fennel Cream
- Short Ribs with Vidalia Onion Demi
- Twinkle Light Succotash
- Green Eggs and Ham
“As we get ready for the 2022 Kentucky Derby, we’re thrilled to have the Vidalia Onion Committee as a returning sponsor,” said Mike Anderson, President of Churchill Downs Racetrack. “We’re looking forward to enjoying the official menu dishes including this unique sweet onion while we eagerly watch the races.”
Churchill Down’s Interim Executive Chef Kenneth Hardiman also commented on the partnership, noting the versatility of the Vidalia.
“When discovering seasonal delights to cook with, Vidalia onions have always stood out as an intriguing ingredient for me to prepare,” said Hardiman, “Their sweet, mild flavor plays well in a variety of dishes, making Vidalia's the perfect fit for Derby fans to enjoy when at the racetrack or entertaining at home.”
In addition to partnering with the Kentucky Derby, the VOC has also teamed up with Chef Alon Shaya, James Beard award winner and owner of Pomegranate Hospitality, to develop two additional recipes to be enjoyed by home chefs and enthusiasts of the Vidalia onion, a press release noted.
Also available on the Derby’s website, these recipes include Vidalia Onion and Chicken Gumbo, as well as Caramelized Vidalia Onion and Mushroom Toast with Sherry and Gruyère Cheese.
One thing is for sure: with this delicious onion variety headlining the menu, people will be racing to get their hands on these dishes.
