Drying onions at home is a simple way to make your homegrown crop last up to 8 months.

After you harvest them from your garden, start by spreading the onions in a single layer on a warm, dry surface, like a shed or garage. This will help the outer bulb scales become rusty and dry.

Ensure the area is well-ventilated, so the onions dry thoroughly. Once fully cured, store them in a cool, dark location for long-term storage.

With the right care, you’ll enjoy your onions for months!

When to Harvest Onions for Optimal Drying

Harvest onions at the right time to ensure they dry properly. Start when the tops begin to fall over and the leaves turn yellow. This happens usually about 2-3 weeks after the onions reach full size.

• Recognizing the Right Time to Harvest

Look for brown edges on the leaves and a firm bulb. The neck should start to thicken, signaling ripening. Avoid waiting too long, as rain or frost can increase the risk of rotting.

• Best Seasons for Harvesting Onions

The best time to harvest is during dry weather. In cooler climates, harvest before frost arrives. In warmer areas, wait until the soil is dry, but not during a wet season.

• Preparing Onions Post-Harvest

After pulling them from the ground, gently brush off dirt from the clumps around the roots. Be careful to avoid bruising the bulbs.

Lay them on a wire rack with good ventilation in the sun, or place them in a greenhouse or tunnel if it’s wet outside for proper drying.

4 Best Methods to Dry Onions

There are different methods you can use depending on the tools you have at home. Here are some easy ways to dry onions that anyone can try.

1. Sun Drying Onions

This method is great if you live in a sunny and dry area. It’s natural and energy-saving.

First, choose a sunny, well-ventilated spot. Next, slice the onions and place them on drying racks or trays.

Also, check the weather stays warm and dry for at least a few days. Be careful of pests and mold by covering the onions lightly and turning them often to dry evenly.

2. Oven Drying Onions

Using the oven is faster and more convenient than sun drying. Preheat the oven to a low temperature (around 140°F).

Slice the onions into even pieces and place them on a baking sheet. Check them regularly, as they can burn if the temperature is too high.

Good airflow is important, so leave the oven door slightly open to let the moisture out.

3. Using a Dehydrator

If you have a dehydrator, this is the most efficient way to dry onions. Set the temperature to around 130°F and lay the onions evenly on the trays.

This allows for proper airflow. Check the progress every few hours and clean the dehydrator after use to avoid any leftover smell or debris.

4. Hanging Onions to Dry Naturally

This is a traditional method that can also look nice in your kitchen. Tie the onions into bunches and hang them in a cool, shaded spot.

Avoid direct sun if it’s too hot, as it can damage the onions. Make sure they are protected from pests and weather changes.

Curing Onions for Long-Term Storage

Airflow is especially important during the first three days to remove surface moisture and prevent rotting.

Whether you use a hoop house, greenhouse, or cold frame, you must provide enough ventilation. When onions are fully dried, they will have brittle tops and a papery layer.

• Understanding the Curing Process

Curing means drying onions in a way that removes extra moisture from the bulb and stems. This process helps develop their flavor and protects them from rotting.

By allowing good ventilation, you stop onions from getting sun-scald and make them ready for storage.

• Curing Instructions

First, choose an outdoor area or covered area with good ventilation for drying. Spread onions on racks or hang them using onion strings or braided tops.

Maintain the constant airflow for three days. Let them sit until the neck becomes brittle and dry. Check for any signs of wrinkled skin, which means they’re cured.

• Curing for Onion Powder

For onion powder, onions need to be extra dry. Use a dry cloth to remove any remaining dirt.

After at least three days of drying, the onions should be ready for grinding into a fine powder. Store the powder in a cool place to prevent moisture from ruining it.

Effective Storage Solutions for Dried Onions

Once your onions are dried, storing them properly is key to avoid sprouting or going bad. You can store dried onions for months if kept in the right place. Use cold storage or a room with good ventilation to keep them longer.

How to Store Onions for Up to 6 Months

To store onions for months, use net bags or mesh bags. Keep them in a cold room or a basement away from direct sunlight. The ideal temperature is 32ºF (0ºC) with humidity at 65-75%.

Humidity can cause soft bulbs, so make sure the room is dry. Check the onions every few weeks for any bad onions. This helps them last longer without rotting.

Choosing and Using Onion Drying Racks

You can use DIY racks made at home or buy commercial options. Place the racks in a place with good airflow but no direct sunlight.

After using, clean and store the drying racks for next time. This keeps the setup ready for future use.

Advanced Storage Techniques

For extra-long storage, try vacuum sealing your dried onions. This helps keep humidity out and maintains freshness. You can also use refrigeration or even freeze dried onions when needed.

Adding desiccants to the storage area helps to keep moisture away, which is important to prevent spoilage.

Top Tips for Successful Onion Drying & Storage

Using the right onion varieties and paying attention to drying techniques will prevent common issues like mold or shriveling. Follow these tips for successful drying and storage to achieve the best results for both flavor and longevity.

Tip	Details
Selecting the Right Onion Varieties	Choose yellow onions, sweet onions, or storage onions for drying as they last longer.
Preventing Mold and Spoilage	Ensure good ventilation and turn onions regularly to avoid mold and spoilage.
Ensuring Even Drying	Turn onions often and check for any shriveling to keep drying even.
Proper Slicing Techniques	Slice onions evenly to enhance flavor and promote uniform drying.
Avoiding Over-Drying or Under-Drying	Don’t over-dry as it can toughen onions; under-drying can cause spoilage.

FAQ’s

Q: Do You Wash Onions Before Drying Them?

A: No, you don’t wash onions before drying them. Instead, brush off any dirt and loose soil while laying them on a dry surface. Washing can cause moisture to stay on the outside, leading to rot during drying.

Q: Do Onions Need to Be Dried After Picking?

A: Yes, onions need to be dried after picking. Drying, or curing, helps the onions stay fresh for a longer time. After being trimmed, they are left in a warm spot to dry for a few days before moving them to a refrigerator or cool place.

Q: What Month to Harvest Onions?

A: Onions are usually harvested in late summer, after growing for about 100 days to 125 days. Green onions can be ready earlier, especially in cool weather. Avoid waiting too long to prevent spoilage or damage to the onions.

Q: Can Onions Stay in the Ground Too Long?

A: Leaving onions in the ground too long increases their risk of rot and mold. To prevent spoilage, cure them properly before storage, as soil conditions can invite pathogens.

Q: How to Dry Onions on the Stove?

A: Slice the onions and spread them evenly on a tray. Heat the oven to 135-145°F (57-63°C) and dry for 6-8 hours until crisp. Once cooled, store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

Conclusion

Picking your onions at the right time is important to keep them fresh and lasting longer. Once the leaves begin to droop and change color, it’s a clear sign they are ready to be harvested.

After you’ve collected your onions, clean them carefully and spread them out in a warm spot. This drying process will take around two weeks. During this time, the outer layer of the onions will harden, protecting the inner layers.

Once the skins are dry and papery, store the onions in a cool, dry place. Hanging them or using mesh bags works well to keep them fresh for longer periods.

As we have discussed in this article, drying onions is an easy and effective way to preserve them. Give it a try and let me know how it works for you!