DRIED ONION

Dried onions are processed in various forms to cater to different culinary and industrial needs:

• Dehydrated Onion Flakes: Flat, thin slices of onion, used in soups, sauces, and stews.

• Dehydrated Onion Powder: Finely ground dried onion, popular in spice blends and ready-to-cook meals.

• Dehydrated Onion Granules: Coarse, granulated onion, often used in seasoning mixes.

• Minced Onion: Small, uniform pieces of dried onion, ideal for toppings and cooking.

• Toasted Onion: Dried onion with a roasted flavor, used as a garnish or in snacks.

1. Types of Onions Used

• White Onion: Commonly dehydrated due to its mild flavor and sweetness.

• Red Onion: Often used for its distinct flavor and appealing color in granules or flakes.

• Yellow Onion: Known for its balance of sweetness and pungency, used in various dried forms.

2. Nutritional Value

• Rich in fiber and low in fat.

• Contains Vitamin C and B-complex vitamins.

• High in antioxidants like quercetin.

• Provides essential minerals like potassium and calcium.

3. Uses of Dried Onion

A. Culinary Applications

• Convenience Foods: Used in instant noodles, soups, and ready-to-eat meals.

• Seasoning Mixes: An ingredient in spice blends like garlic-onion powder, taco seasoning, and marinades.

• Snack Industry: Added to chips, popcorn, and dips for flavor enhancement.

• Bakery Products: Used in bread, bagels, and crackers for savory flavor.

B. Industrial Applications

• Food Processing: Widely used in sauces, gravies, dressings, and meat products.

• Health Supplements: Quercetin extracted from onions is used in supplements.