Substitutes for Onion

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Essential aromatic vegetable used as a flavor base in nearly all savory cuisines.

Can't find Onion in your kitchen? No problem! Below are 5 tested substitutes with exact ratios, perfect for baking, cooking, and everything in between.

Substitute Ratio Best For Dietary
Shallots 3 shallots per 1 medium onion all savory cooking
Vegan Gluten-Free
Leeks 1 cup leeks per 1 medium onion soups, stews, sautéed dishes
Vegan Gluten-Free
Onion Powder 1 tsp per 1 medium onion spice rubs, soups, sauces
Vegan Gluten-Free
Green Onions (scallions) 1 bunch per 1 medium onion stir-fries, salads, soups
Vegan Gluten-Free
Celery + Garlic 2 stalks celery + 2 cloves garlic per 1 onion soups, stews, bases
Vegan Gluten-Free

How to Use

Milder, sweeter, more refined flavor. Best in French cooking and dressings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for Onion?
The best substitute depends on your recipe, but Shallots is a reliable choice for most applications. Use 3 shallots per 1 medium onion.
What's a vegan substitute for Onion?
Shallots is an excellent vegan option. Use 3 shallots per 1 medium onion.
Can I use any of these substitutes interchangeably?
Most substitutes work well in their recommended use cases, but they may produce slightly different results. The notes above explain the differences and best practices.
Will the taste be affected?
Some substitutes may subtly change the flavor profile of your dish, but they'll work great in the recommended use cases. Start with the suggested ratio and adjust to your taste.

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