Onions are one of the most useful vegetables in the kitchen —
and one of the easiest to dehydrate. If you grow your own or
buy in bulk when prices are low, dehydrating with the Ezidri
FD1000 gives you a year round supply of dried onion flakes
and powder at a fraction of the cost of shop bought.
Why Dehydrate Onions?
Fresh onions have a relatively short shelf life once cut.
Dehydrated onions last for months, take up minimal storage
space and are incredibly convenient to use directly in
cooking without any chopping or preparation.
One kilogram of fresh onions produces approximately 100g
of dried onion flakes — a highly concentrated ingredient
that adds instant flavour to soups, stews, sauces and
countless other dishes.
What You'll Need
- 1kg onions — any variety
- Ezidri FD1000 with mesh sheets
A word of warning — onions have a very strong aroma during
drying. Make sure your kitchen is well ventilated and be
prepared for the smell to linger for a few hours.
How to Dehydrate Onions
1. Preheat Ezidri FD1000 to 55°C
2. Peel onions and remove tops and roots
3. Slice into 5mm rings or dice finely —
rings produce flakes, diced produces a finer result
closer to onion powder
4. Separate rings and spread in a single layer
on mesh sheets
5. Dry at 55°C for 6 to 10 hours until completely
crisp and dry
6. Allow to cool completely before storing
Making Onion Powder
Once fully dried place onion flakes in a blender
or food processor and blitz until a fine powder forms.
Store in an airtight jar — use anywhere a recipe
calls for onion powder.
Dryness Test
Onion pieces should be completely crisp and snap
cleanly. Any flexibility means moisture remains —
return to the Ezidri for another hour.
Storage
Store in airtight glass jars away from light and
moisture for up to 12 months. Label with date dried.
Uses
- Add directly to soups, stews and casseroles
- Use as a seasoning on roasted vegetables
- Blend into onion powder for sauces and marinades
- Add to homemade spice blends and rubs
- Use in bread and savoury baking
Tips for Best Results
- Wear goggles or work near an open window when
slicing large quantities — the fumes are powerful
- Keep onions on separate trays from other vegetables
as the aroma can transfer
- The Ezidri FD1000's even airflow ensures all pieces
dry at the same rate — no rotating or checking needed
- Red onions produce a beautiful colour and slightly
sweeter flavour when dried
Want more ideas for preserving your allotment harvest?
Visit our Allotment and Garden page for more inspiration.