What are onion flakes and onion flake substitutes? (2024)

FAQs

What is a substitute for onion flakes? ›

Instead of 1 tablespoon of onion flakes, try 2 to 3 tablespoons of jarred minced onion, 3/4 to 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 3/4 to 1 teaspoon of onion salt (and reduce the amount of any other salt added to the recipe), 1/2 cup chopped fresh or frozen onion, or 2/3 cup of chopped green onions.

Red Onion Flakes are made from fresh onions which have been minced and dehydrated. The Flakes can be used to replace fresh onion in soups, stews and other cooked foods and make a good emergency pantry staple.

Shallots are hands-down the best substitute for onions. They're small onions with a mild, delicate, flavor. Toss chopped, sliced, or finely diced shallots in literally anything: soups, sauces, and a host of sauteed dishes.

This minced version is a handy, tear-free way to add oniony goodness to dips, gravies, and pan sauces. Proportion: 2 tablespoons of dried minced onion = 1 medium, fresh onion.

Onion powder, on the other hand, comes from onions that have been dried (either air-dried, dehydrated, or freeze-dried) and then crushed to varying degrees, from flakes to powder. No texture, no water, and a more concentrated oniony punch. And just like with fresh onions, the flavor of onion powder varies, too.

Shallots, Granulated Toasted Onion, Scallions, Garlic Salt, and other onion-based seasonings are solid swaps. Depending on the recipe, fennel bulbs, celery, and fresh onions can sub in too.

As explained earlier, dehydrated onions are low in sodium, fat, and calories, consuming dehydrated onions in place of other spices can help you lower your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Dehydrated onions contain many beneficial nutrients, including calcium, potassium, and magnesium.

Dried onion flakes should be kept in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry location, like a pantry or closet. They may lose their flavour and scent if you store them close to heat or dampness. Dried onion flakes can keep for up to a year if stored properly.

Onion flakes are commonly used as a seasoning and flavoring agent in various dishes. They can be used in soups, stews, sauces, marinades, dressings, and spice blends.

Fortunately, there are a number of substitutes that can give the same effect, from other aromatics such as fennel and bell peppers to herbs and spices like ginger and horseradish. Oil infused with garlic and garlic powder are also possible substitutes.

What is a good substitute for onion powder? ›

What can you use instead of onion powder? Instead of onion powder you can use: grated fresh onion, shallots, fennel bulbs, scallions, garlic powder, onion salt, or celery.

Onions and shallots, as well as garlic, leeks, and chives, are all in the allium family and have much in common. While they are used similarly in cooking, there are a few differences between shallots and onions that you should know.

Let sit 15 minutes or until the water has been absorbed. If the onions still seem wet you can press out the extra water with the back of a spoon.

Dehydrate onion slices for 6-8 hours at 150 degrees F or until all onion pieces snap easily and are completely dry. Grind dried onion slices in a high-powered blender, food processor or spice grinder until a fine powder.

One medium onion equals about 1 cup chopped onion.

Instead of onion powder you can use: grated fresh onion, shallots, fennel bulbs, scallions, garlic powder, onion salt, or celery.

Garlic powder or granulated garlic

Both are often used together as base flavors in many dishes, like seasoning for potato wedges, so most of the time, you can double up on the garlic powder and omit the onion powder in a dish. If the recipe doesn't call for garlic powder, just use an equal amount as onion powder.

Line dehydrator trays with onion slices in a single layer, it's ok if they overlap a bit. Dehydrate onion slices for 6-8 hours at 150 degrees F or until all onion pieces snap easily and are completely dry. Grind dried onion slices in a high-powered blender, food processor or spice grinder until a fine powder.