Onions, unlike many vegetables, can be stored for quite a long time, but only if we follow some important storage rules. If stored incorrectly, they will spoil faster than you think.
Here are some tips on how to store onions, so they last longer:
Store in a cool, dry, dark place with temperatures between 45-55°F (7.2-12.7°C)
Onions thrive in cool environments, with an ideal temperature range of 45-55°F (7.2-12.7°C). As your home may not be this cold, you can store onions in areas without heating, such as a garage, basement, or cellar.
Onions also prefer dry and dark conditions. Exposure to moisture or sunlight can cause them to sprout. Sprouted onions are still edible but may have a diminished flavor. As long as you keep them cool and dry, you can store onions for up to 3 months.
Keep them well-ventilated and cool
You can also store onions on a tray designed for dry bulbs. However, this method may only keep them fresh for 2 weeks to a month. Note that you should avoid keeping them in warmer areas of your kitchen, especially on top of the refrigerator.
Remember, wherever you store your onions, ensure there is good airflow. It’s best to use a mesh bag or a perforated paper bag and hang them up to prevent mold. Layering onions instead of stacking them will also help extend their shelf life.
If you don’t have a mesh bag, you can use a long string to tie up a bunch of dry onions and hang them in a well-ventilated area.
What about cut onions?
Once cut, onions are still alive, so they should be stored in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage. Keep them in an airtight container, such as a glass or dedicated produce container, to prevent them from absorbing odors from other foods. This will slow down oxidation and moisture absorption, allowing cut onions to be stored for up to 10 days. However, cooked onions will only last a few days in the fridge.
Can onions and potatoes be stored together?
Some believe that onions release ethylene gas, which can cause potatoes to spoil before use, and potatoes can release moisture, causing the same issue with onions.
However, you don’t need to worry about this. Both foods have low ethylene production, so they can be stored together without issues. The only potential problem is that potatoes may absorb the onion’s flavor, but this isn’t a significant concern if you cook them together.
In summary, to keep onions fresh for an extended period, aim to store them in a cool, dark, dry, and well-ventilated area. If you can’t follow all these storage rules, keeping them in a dry bulb tray is fine, but it’s best to buy onions in smaller quantities to avoid waste.
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