How to store onions properly so they last longer without spoiling.
Onions look hardy, but they are actually very sensitive to the environment where they are stored. Many people believe that they spoil because they are old, when in reality the problem is almost always how and where they are stored.
When an onion becomes mushy, with dark spots or begins to smell bad, it is a sign that it has been exposed to moisture, lack of ventilation or contact with other foods that accelerate its deterioration.
Understanding these factors is the key to keeping them firm, dry, and tasty for much longer.
The most common mistake: leaving them in the supermarket bag
One of the biggest enemies of onions is moisture. When they are left inside plastic bags, even if they have small holes, the air does not circulate properly and the vapor is trapped.
This humid environment causes that:
- Mold appears on the peel
- The pulp softens
- Internal decomposition accelerates
Onions need to breathe. Their dry skin functions as a protective barrier only when air can circulate freely around.
Therefore, as soon as you get home, the first thing you should do is take them out of the plastic bag.
Never store them next to potatoes
Although it is a very common custom, onions and potatoes together form a disastrous combination.
This happens because:
- Onions release a natural gas that accelerates germination
- Potatoes are constantly giving off moisture
The moisture in the potatoes tenderizes the onions, while the gas in the onions makes the potatoes sprout faster. In the end, both break down before their time.
Ideally, they should be kept in separate spaces, even a few meters apart.
Method 1: Store them in baskets or paper bags
The best way to preserve whole onions is to allow air to circulate.
You can use:
- Wicker baskets
- Ventilated boxes
- Paper bags with small holes
Place them without piling them up to avoid bumps. Then store them in a dark, cool, dry place, such as a cupboard, pantry, or closet.
The ideal temperature is between 7 and 13 degrees, as it keeps the onion in a resting state and prevents it from sprouting.
Method 2: Hang them in tights or tights
This ancient trick is still one of the most effective.
You just need:
- A clean stocking or panty
- Various onions
Place an onion on the end, tie a knot, add another and tie again. This forms a kind of chain where each onion is separated.
Then hang it in a cool, ventilated place.
Advantages of this method:
- Each onion receives air from all sides
- If one is damaged, it does not harm the others
- They are easy to remove one by one
Method 3: How to Save Chopped Onion
When you only use half an onion, you should not leave it in the air or in an open bag.
Do this:
- Dry the cut surface with a napkin
- Place a dry napkin in an airtight container
- Put the onion on top
- Close tightly and refrigerate
The napkin will absorb moisture and prevent bad odors. This way it can last up to 7 days in good condition.
Method 4: Freeze Onions
If you want to save time and avoid waste, freezing them is an excellent option.
You can:
- Chop them into cubes
- Slice them
- Shred them
Place them in freezer bags, press to remove the air and freeze in thin layers. This way you can break only the amount you need.
They won’t be crispy when defrosted, but they’re perfect for:
- Soups
- Stews
- Sauces
- Sautéed
In the freezer they can last up to 6 months maintaining their flavor.
Tips and recommendations
- Never wash onions before storing them
- Check every week if any are soft
- Keep them away from heat and light
- Don’t crowd them or lock them up
- Use the most mature ones first
Onions do not spoil quickly by chance, but by a bad way of storing. With air, dryness, and a suitable place, they can last for months without losing flavor or texture. Changing small habits in the kitchen makes a big difference in your pocket and in the quality of your food.
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