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What is Onion Powder?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Onion powder is a spice made from dried onions that retains some of the pungency and flavor of fresh ones. Some cooks like to use the powder because it is easier to handle than fresh onions, requiring no chopping or special treatment, and a number of recipes call for it. Most markets carry this spice, typically with the other dried spices, and there are several varieties available in many places.

Bulb onions are used for onion powder because the bulb concentrates much of the flavor and distinctive aroma of the onion. Typically, the bulbs are dried and then ground, although some companies grind them into a paste and dehydrate it, claiming that this enhances the flavor. In either case, the end result is a fine whitish powder with an intense onion scent.

Croutons may be flavored with onion powder.
Croutons may be flavored with onion powder.

Many stores sell several of varieties of onion powder. White, yellow, and red powders can often be found, each harnessing the distinctive flavors of these onion varieties. Shoppers may also be able to find toasted onion powder, which has a more nutty, full, slightly sweet flavor. In addition, it is also possible to find onion flakes, which can be used when cooks want to add a little texture to a dish along with flavor.

Onion powder is made from dried onions that retain the pungency of fresh onions.
Onion powder is made from dried onions that retain the pungency of fresh onions.

In cooking, a single teaspoon (2.4 g) of onion powder can replace an entire medium-sized onion, although cooks will experience some loss of flavor. For example, in recipes that call for onions to be caramelized, replacing fresh ones with powder will change the flavor of the end product, as the caramelization process brings out the natural sweetness of the onions. In other instances, the substitution is less noticeable. The spice can also be used to add zest to dips, toasted bread, croutons, and so forth.

Like other spices, powdered onions need to be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry, dark place. Ideally, it should not be exposed to moisture; instead of shaking a container over a cooking pot, for example, cooks should measure out a desired amount with a spoon. When well handled and stored well, the powder can keep for up to a year, although it may lose potency.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a DelightedCooking researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a DelightedCooking researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon946769

The problem here is many shops appear to have stopped stocking onion powder. I have searched several Tesco's, Sainsbury's and Morrisons as well as spice companies such as Natco and Rajah - all without result. It appears the only place is ASDA or buy it online.

anon187539

Onion powder on cornmeal formed as onions are a great thing.

pleats

Does anybody know if onion powder can be used with Chinese five spice powder?

musicshaman

Of all the herbs and spices, I think that onion powder is my favorite. It's so basic that it goes with everything, and it gives things a good flavor without being overwhelming.

If I could never buy spices again, that's the one that I would really miss.

Planch

I always like to use onion powder when I'm making stir fry, since it blends flavors together really well when you're cooking with spices.

It works really well with chili powder since it can sort of cut the spiciness, but it's not so good with curry powder -- for that, I think you need a real onion.

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    • Croutons may be flavored with onion powder.
      By: marilyn barbone
      Croutons may be flavored with onion powder.
    • Onion powder is made from dried onions that retain the pungency of fresh onions.
      By: Africa Studio
      Onion powder is made from dried onions that retain the pungency of fresh onions.