Minced onion is a rockstar for every cook or homemaker looking for a flavorful and aromatic substitute for diced or chopped fresh onion. This versatile spice adds a distinct onion flavor to soups, stews, curries, and casseroles.
Table of Contents
What is minced onion?
Minced onion is made from fresh onion cut into fine pieces. You can find dried minced onions in local grocery stores or online retailers. It is a convenient ingredient that will save you from chopping fresh onions every time.
| Appearance | Finely cut onion, either fresh or dried |
| Flavor profile | Toasty and savory |
| Dishes | Meatloaf, tacos, salads |
Appearance
Minced onion is a finely cut onion, around ⅛-inch or even smaller. Minced onion is perfect for dishes that need a good amount of onion flavor sans the texture of large onion pieces.
Note that the texture is quite different when using dried minced onions. They do not get as soft as fresh onions, even when soaked.
Flavor profile
Minced onion is pungent, toasty, and savory flavors with hints of sweetness. It is a flavor powerhouse that adds depth to any dish. You can use dried minced onions for recipes that call for fresh onions.
The flavor profile of the minced onion may vary depending on the type of fresh onion used. Dried minced onions are usually made from white onions, which are milder and sweeter than yellow onions. Red onions can be processed, too.
Dishes
You can practically use them in recipes that require onion flavors, such as meatloaf and meatballs. You can toss dried minced onions on your tacos or potato salad for some crunch.
When cooking, you can add the dried onions after pouring the liquid to rehydrate the minced spice when the pot simmers.
Likewise, you can reconstitute the dehydrated onion with hot water before adding the ingredient to your dish.
Is chopped onion the same as minced onion?
| Chopped onion | Larger pieces |
| Minced onion | Finer than chopped onions in size and texture |
The terms minced onion and chopped onion are often used interchangeably. However, there is a clear difference in the manner of preparation.
Chopped onions are typically larger pieces of the ingredient with varying sizes. They may vary from quarter-inch pieces to about an inch, considered fine chop and rough chop, respectively.
Meanwhile, minced onion is finer than chopped onions in size and texture. Because of this, minced onion may dissolve into your recipes during the cooking process. It’s perfect if you want the flavor without onion pieces in a dish.
Minced onion vs. onion powder
| Minced onion | Offers flavor and texture |
| Onion powder | Blends well with the dish, lacks texture |
Minced onion and onion powder are the best shortcuts to achieving great onion flavor without having to slice, dice, or chop an onion on a cutting board.
The two different forms of onion share a similar sharp profile. The difference is mainly in how you use them. Mince onions are perfect for injecting flavor or texture into your recipes.
On the other hand, onion powder is an excellent seasoning and goes well with other spices in sauces, marinades, and dry rubs.
How to make minced onions?
You only need a few things to make minced onions. You need onions, a cutting board, and some knife skills. To mince an onion:
- Peel the bulb and cut it in half.
- Lay it flat on its side on the cutting board.
- Cut across the onion to make ¼ or smaller cuts.
- Move in the other direction to achieve finely diced pieces.
To make dried minced onion at home, you can spread the minced onion on a baking pan and cover it with parchment paper.
Finish the process by dehydrating them in the oven at 140°F until they’re completely dry. It is best to stir and spread the onions from time to time.
How much minced onion equals 1 cup of onion?
About 3 tablespoons of dried minced onion or a tablespoon of onion powder equals a cup of chopped fresh onion. One cup of minced onion is generally equal to a medium-sized onion.
Skip sauteing when using a dried substitute. You may add the dried minced onion, for example, together with the other spices.
What are the benefits of minced onion?
Onions are rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, iron, and calcium. The widely used spice may help lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and cancer risk.
Likewise, there are studies linking it to lowering blood sugar levels. Since onions are gluten-free, people with celiac disease do not have to worry about consuming them.
Can you buy minced onions in a store?
You can purchase dried minced onions in most grocery stores. They’re also available online in small quantities or bulk.
Like when buying other ingredients, it is best to check the product label for allergen information or any ingredients added during processing.