Are you tired of onion powder’s sometimes overpowering flavor and displeasing texture? Or maybe you’re out of onion powder and can’t find the right substitution? Don’t worry! In this article, I will discuss the top substitutes for onion powder that can replicate that delicious flavor.
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15 Substitute for Onion Powder
The best substitute for onion powder are onion flakes and jarred minced onion. You can also use onion paste, chopped chives, and leeks as onion powder substitute.
Keep reading to learn how you can switch up your cooking routine without sacrificing taste or quality with these substitutes.
1. Onion Flakes
Onions are a main ingredient in onion powder, and when necessary, they can be substituted with onion flakes. This spice is often used to add flavor to gravies, sauces and soups – try it out today!
Onion flakes have a range of different flavors and textures so you’re sure to find the perfect one for your recipe. You can also use onion flakes as an unexpected way to freshen up your breath and clear your sinuses.
Keep them stored in a cool, dry place so that they will last longer. Finally, always consult the recipe before using onion flakes – some may not be suitable for certain dishes.
2. Jarred Minced Onion
If you can’t find onion powder at your grocery store, try jarred minced onion instead. It has a similar flavour and can be used in the same way as onion powder.
As mentioned earlier, best way to use this product is to add it to your favourite dishes – rice, pasta, curries etcetera. So if you have some jarred minced onion on hand and you’re looking for something delicious to cook with it – don’t hesitate!
Just make sure that you follow the instructions listed on the package and store it in a cool dark place away from direct sunlight.
3. Granulated Onion
Granulated onion is a spice substitute made from dehydrated and ground onions. It has a stronger flavor and can be used in various dishes as a base for seasoning or as an ingredient itself.
Its gritty texture makes it perfect for thickening sauces or gravies, while its slightly sweet flavor offers an excellent taste profile.
Granulated onion can also be used as a natural preservative and flavoring agent in food, making it ideal for preserving food items of all types.
4. Fresh Onion
If you’re looking for a substitute for onion powder, fresh onion is the best option. It has a strong flavor and can be used in many recipes that call for onion powder. You may always use fresh onion powder if you don’t have any on hand. Onion powder can be replaced with freshly chopped onions, which will assist keep the dish’s original flavor.
In addition, a lot of us have onions that are ready to be used in the kitchen. Since onion powder is so concentrated, a small bit provides a lot of flavor. It requires a lot more when using the fresh version, though. Instead of using 1 tablespoon of onion powder, you must substitute 1 cup of chopped onion.
The texture of your food will change, but the flavor will remain the same. Therefore, you might want to try one of the other options if you don’t want the extra texture.
In addition, fresh onion is high in antioxidants and helps to reduce inflammation. To get the most out of your fresh onions, make sure to soak them overnight before using them so that they are softer and have a stronger flavor.
For best results, use fresh onions whenever possible – they will be more flavorful this way! Finally, don’t forget about all of its various uses – mix it up with biryani (a Lahore specialty), dal ( lentils) or chapathi (a type of flatbread from South India).
5. Onion Salt
If you’re missing the great onion taste and aroma in your food, try using onion salt instead. It has a similar flavour and can be used in place of fresh onions in most dishes.
Even though you might not have onion powder, you probably have onion salt. Because it is manufactured with onion powder, onion salt is the simplest alternative to onion powder. It is merely salt and onion powder.
As a result, you will experience a nearly identical flavor exchange. You must be careful not to oversalt the dish because of the salt, though. The best course of action is to exclude any additional salt that your recipe specifies.
When switching from onion powder to onion salt, you can typically get away with a straightforward 1:1 ratio by omitting any extra salt. However, if you are concerned that your dish may be excessively salty, start with half the amount and add more as desired.
Besides its great culinary use, onion salt is also a good source of dietary magnesium which many people lack. With different forms like flakes, cubes etcetera available at supermarkets or online stores, finding the best option for you shouldn’t be too difficult. Used as a flavoring agent or even as condiments on top of main courses – onion salt can really come in handy!
6. Onion Paste
Onion Paste is a great substitute for onion powder in many recipes. It has a similar texture and flavor, making it an ideal alternative for people who are sensitive to onion flakes or onions in general.
It is made from finely chopped onions that have been boiled until they form a thick paste. You can use it as a condiment or even as the base of sauces and gravies. In addition, onion paste makes savory dishes like soup and chili more delicious and satisfying.
Keep in mind that Onion Paste will change the color and consistency of your recipe – so adjust accordingly!
7. Chopped Chives
Chives are a great substitute for onion powder and can be used in many savory and sweet dishes. They have a strong onion taste and can be used interchangeably in most cases.
Chopped chives also have a shorter shelf life than onion powder, so make sure to store them properly. Chives can also be used as a garnish or an ingredient in sauces and dips.
In salads, they add freshness and flavor to the dish; while stir-frys benefit from their garlic flavor, adding crunchiness; soups get depth of flavor from their umami properties coupled with the saltiness of chives; while snacks like samosas or pakoras get that characteristic oniony kick!
8. Scallions
If you are looking for a substitute for onion powder, scallions are a great option. They have a similar flavor and can be used in the same way as onion powder. Green onions are related to onions, as their name suggests. Technically, they are still young onions. As a result, even though they taste like onions, they do so in a softer way than a mature onion.
Both hot and cold recipes can include green onions. They don’t add as much texture as a regular onion will, despite not being as finely diced as onion powder. You will need to use roughly three times as much onion powder as the recipe calls for because of its milder flavor. For the most flavorful cut, concentrate on the white bulb portion.
Scallions are also low in calories so they can be eaten as part of a healthy diet. They can be grown easily in your garden so they are an eco-friendly option too. They can also be used raw or cooked, in salads, curries etcetera., making them versatile and adaptable to various recipes and cooking methods.
9. Shallots
Shallots are versatile vegetables that can be used in many different ways. They have a milder flavor than onions and can be substituted with onion powder in most recipes. shallots are also great for chutneys, sauces etcetera.
You can even use them interchangeably with onion powder in savory dishes – just make sure to avoid using shallots in dishes where their stronger flavor would clash with the other ingredients.
Shallots are available fresh or frozen and typically cost around $0.50-$1 per pound at grocery stores or supermarkets.
10. Leeks
Leeks are a great substitute for onion powder in many recipes. They have a similar flavor and aroma, plus they are high in vitamins A, C, and K which make them an excellent source of nutrients.
You can cook or use leeks like onions – raw or cooked – making them a versatile addition to your culinary arsenal. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days without losing their flavor or nutrition.
So if you’re looking for something new and tasty to add to your diet, leeks might just be a perfect choice!
11. Chopped Celery
Chopped celery is a versatile and flavor-rich substitute for onion powder. It is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin A, potassium, and magnesium, and has a milder flavor than onion powder.
This herb can be used in place of onion powder in both savory and sweet dishes. Additionally, chopped celery can be used as a base for soups or stews or to add moisture to meals.
Keep chopped celery stored in an airtight container to keep it fresh and tasty.
12. Celery Seed
Celery seed is a great substitute for onion powder in many recipes. It can also be used as a condiment and, because it’s finely ground, it doesn’t contain any gluten.
Mix celery seed with salt, pepper etcetera to create your own seasoning blends, or add it to soups, stews, or salad dressings for extra flavor. In addition to its culinary uses, celery seed has other benefits too – like being good for skin health!
Celery seeds are particularly great for those with gluten sensitivities since they don’t contain gluten. Make sure to store your substitutions in a cool and dry place so they last longer!
13. Garlic Powder
Garlic powder is a spice that’s used to flavor dishes and add additional flavor. Even though garlic and onions have different tastes, they both belong to the same vegetable family. Allium plants include both varieties of onions and garlic.
These are plants with powerful flavors that are used to flavor food. This plant family also includes shallots, green onions, chives, and leeks. Garlic powder is produced in the same manner as other members of the same plant family. It is just garlic that has been dried and processed into a powder. This gives it an onion-powder-like texture.
Garlic powder is a fantastic substitute for onion powder if you don’t have any. It complements the same foods that onions help to improve. As a result, you will still have a delicious dish that is packed with flavor.
On the whole, nevertheless, garlic is more powerful than onions. Use half as much garlic powder as you normally would prevent dominating your dish. You can add more to taste if you think you need it.
Both onion powder and garlic powder have similar properties and can be used interchangeably in most cases. They are both available in powders or paste form, and can be used in various recipes.
Use it sparingly if you want to avoid overpowering the dish with its strong taste. Make sure you store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
14. Garlic Salt
Garlic salt is a great substitute for onion powder and can be used in both savory and sweet dishes.
It also has anti-bacterial properties that help keep your food clean and healthy. Keep a jar of garlic salt in your kitchen to enhance the flavor of your meals! Garlic salt can be used in place of onion powder in any dish – from gravies to sauces.
Best way to store garlic salt – keep it in an airtight container so that it retains its flavor and properties.
15. Shallot Infused Olive Oil
If you’re looking for an onion substitute that offers a great flavor, shallots are perfect. Plus, they can be used in place of onion powder in many recipes – making them a versatile and handy ingredient.
Infused olive oil is also great for replacing harsh cooking oils or as a skincare supplement.
Not to mention, it’s vegan and vegetarian-friendly! You can even use it as a seasoning for meats, fish, and vegetables – giving your meals an interesting flavor profile that you won’t find with other ingredients.
How Does Onion Powder Taste Like?
Your onion powder should have the crisp, somewhat sweet scent of a gorgeous entire onion that has been warmed by the sun.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What spice is similar to onion powder?
One spice that is similar to onion powder is garlic powder. Garlic powder can be used in place of onion powder for many baking and cooking needs. It has a stronger flavor and can also be used as an all-purpose seasoning.
2. Can you use onion instead of onion powder?
You’ll need a lot more onion powder than raw onion to make a suitable replacement because it has a more concentrated flavor.
3 tablespoons of fresh onion diced equals 1 teaspoon of onion powder.
3. What is the correct substitution for 1 teaspoon of onion powder?
If you don’t have onion powder, you can use 1 tablespoon of onion flakes for each teaspoon that is needed. If the flakes need to be dissolved, for instance, for a sauce, just pound them in a mortar and pestle. Use the full flakes if you’re using it for a dish like a meatloaf.
4. What tastes like onion powder?
You can use garlic powder instead of powdered onion if you already have it in your kitchen. Use half a teaspoon of garlic powder instead of the whole teaspoon called for in the recipe because it has a richer flavor and scent. Any meal, sauce, or marinade tastes great when garlic powder is added.
