This simple yet rewarding process not only guarantees a superior flavor profile but also offers the satisfaction of creating something exceptional in your own kitchen. Bid farewell to the supermarket shelves and embark on a journey to transform humble onions into a versatile and aromatic seasoning.
Homemade Onion Powder Recipe
Unveiling the magic of this recipe, you’ll be delighted to learn that only one ingredient is needed – onions! Opting for homemade onion powder ensures the use of fresh onions, unlike the commercial varieties. While I used yellow onions, feel free to experiment with any onion varieties you have on hand.
Preparing and Draining the Onions
Various methods can be employed in making homemade onion powder, and for this rendition, I chose to grate the onions using a cheese grater. This technique yielded about a cup of onion juice when drained. Whether you choose to grate, chop by hand, or use a food processor, ensure the onions are peeled first.
Once grated, chopped, or processed, drain the onions to extract the juice. Use a fine wire mesh strainer over a bowl, pressing down gently with a spoon or hand to release the juice. As a last resort, gently squeezing the onions in a paper towel can also be effective.
Onion Juice Tip: Don’t discard the onion juice! Store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, and later, we’ll explore some creative uses for it.
Drying the Onions
To produce the onion powder, preheat the oven to 170°F (77°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the grated onions in a thin layer on the sheet and bake for 5 hours or until completely dry. Don’t be alarmed if they take on a pinkish hue – it’s entirely normal. Keep in mind that drying times may vary, especially if you chopped the onions by hand.
You’ll know the onions are ready when they crumble in your hand. Allow the dried onions to cool completely before moving on to the grinding stage.
Grinding Dried Onions
Transforming the dried onions into powder involves various methods. A food processor can be employed for a coarser consistency, while a mortar and pestle will yield a finer grain. Some recommend using a coffee grinder for an even smoother texture, but caution is advised as it may not be suitable for coffee afterward.
How to Store
Preserve your homemade onion powder in an airtight container for several months. Store it in a cool, dry place to enhance its shelf life. Before sealing, add a few grains of uncooked rice to absorb any excess moisture.
Onion Juice Bonus: Don’t forget to explore the world of onion juice. Stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, it can be a versatile addition to marinades, drizzled on potatoes, stirred into soups or dips, or used wherever a hint of onion flavor is desired. Surprisingly, it also finds its place in hair care!
Ingredients
- 4 large onions, peeled
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 170°F (77°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Peel each onion and grate using a cheese grater, resulting in approximately 4 cups.
- Transfer grated onions to a fine wire mesh strainer over a bowl and squeeze out as much liquid as possible by gently pressing with a spoon or hands. Store the liquid in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Divide the onions in half and lay them out in a thin layer on each parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 5 hours or until completely dry, with the onions turning pink, which is normal. Note that baking times may vary. The onions are ready when they crumble in your hand.
- Allow the dried onions to cool completely before grinding them.
- To grind the onions, use a food processor for a desired consistency. For an even finer grain, a mortar and pestle can be employed.
- Store the powder in an airtight container, adding a few grains of uncooked rice to absorb excess moisture.
