Sweet onions are mild. The best-known variety is Vidalia. If desired, substitute red onion. Cane sugar is likely to be filtered through bone char, while beet sugar is not. Most labels don’t indicate the source of the sugar. If you are following a vegan diet, use unbleached organic sugar that has not been filtered through bone char, or a sweetener such as agave syrup. To toast almonds, cook them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring often, for 2 to 3 minutes, until golden and aromatic.