Today, I’ll share tips on how to keep onions fresh, including specific storage methods for whole, peeled, and chopped onions.

Storing Raw Onions

Dried raw onions should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated, dry environment, away from direct sunlight. If they’re wrapped in plastic bags when you buy them, remove the plastic and place them in a clean paper bag (a mesh bag or bamboo basket is also acceptable). Make sure to pierce the bag a few times for ventilation. With proper storage, they’ll keep for about 30 days.

What about storing whole raw onions in the refrigerator?

Try not to refrigerate onions, as they absorb moisture easily. The cold environment in the refrigerator will cause them to become soggy and soften faster, making them more susceptible to mold. However, this doesn’t apply to cut onions.

Simply peel an onion, cut it in half, wrap it in damp paper towels, and seal it in a food-grade ziplock bag. Store in the refrigerator for about two weeks. Chopped onions are best stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for about 10 days.

Chopped onions can also be frozen. Simply seal the container in a ziplock bag and squeeze out as much air as possible, and they will keep for up to 3 months.

Pickled Onion Storage

Pickling raw onions can help preserve them longer. There are many ways to pickle them, such as heating white vinegar, salt, sugar, and water in a pot to create a pickling solution.

Once the salt and sugar have dissolved, turn off the heat and let cool. Finally, place the shredded onions and the pickling solution in a sterilized glass jar and refrigerate overnight before eating.

Cooked Onion Storage

If chopped or shredded onions are already cooked, store them in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-5 days. For longer storage, freeze them. Place the onions in a ziplock bag, squeeze out the air, seal, and freeze for 10 months to a year.