Which nutrient present in onions is relatively sensitive to heat and leaching into cooking water, suggesting that methods minimizing water contact better retain it?
Answer
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, a notable nutrient found in onions that is crucial for immune system support, is chemically known to be relatively sensitive to environmental factors such as prolonged heat exposure and dissolution into aqueous solutions like cooking water. Consequently, preparation methods that avoid prolonged contact with water, such as roasting whole onions or employing quick stir-frying techniques, are recommended as superior strategies for maximizing the retention percentage of this particular vitamin compared to methods like long, slow boiling, where leaching is maximized.

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