How to Freeze Onions

Onions can be frozen for use later but only if you use them in cooking as they lose some of their texture and go a bit mushy (if you need raw onions, use fresh ones.). Be aware that the flavor deteriorates with time, although most of the flavor is preserved provided the onions are not frozen for too long. However, if you managed to chop more than you needed for a dish and you know you won't be able to use up the excess in a hurry, freezing the remainder can be a good way of saving it.

EditSteps

Select suitable onions for freezing. Choose onions that are fresh, without blemishes and mold-free.

Peel the outer paper layer off the onion.

Chop the onion into 1/2 inch/ 1.5cm pieces. Alternatively, cut them into slices.
- There is no need to blanch onions before freezing.

Fill either a resealable bag with the chopped onion pieces. Leave about 1/2 inch/1.5cm from the top of the bag, to allow for expansion during freezing. If using a resealable bag, press gently to expel excess air before sealing.
- Package as flat as possible. This helps to speed up the freezing time and makes it easier to break off small amounts when you want to use them in cooking. Push the onions down flat; use more bags rather than overfilling one bag.

Label and date the bags.

Arrange the bag or bags across a baking sheet or metal tray. Push the onions down flat again to ensure they freeze evenly and as flatly as possible. Place in the freezer and let freeze.

Remove and stack. Once the onions have dried in the bags, they can be stacked more neatly, so as to take up less room in the freezer.

Use. To use, break off the amount of onion needed and add to whatever your cooking. Frozen onions can be added to soups, stews, sauces, minced meat mixtures, etc.

EditTips

Frozen onions will keep for 3 to 6 months. However, be aware that it's best to use them within 6 weeks, as after that they really start to lose their flavor and by 6 months, will have no flavor left.^[1] Ironically, during the first 6 weeks, onions can have such a strong flavor that they share it with the other items in your freezer, so don't sit them near any delicate foods or on top of other foods.