Caramelized onions are a delicious addition to many dishes, but their intensive prep time can make using them in everyday cooking challenging. Prepping a big batch of caramelized onions to freeze is a great way to save time and always have these flavorful onions on hand. But how well do caramelized onions actually freeze? Let’s take a closer look.
Can You Freeze Caramelized Onions?
The good news is that yes, caramelized onions freeze extremely well. The low moisture content and high sugar concentration allows them to hold up better to freezing than most other veggies. When frozen properly, caramelized onions retain their flavor and texture very well.
How to Freeze Caramelized Onions
Freezing caramelized onions is simple, but there are a few tips to follow for best results:
- Make sure onions are fully cooked and caramelized before freezing. They should be deeply browned and jammy.
- Allow onions to cool completely before freezing. Freezing warm onions can make them soggy.
- Portion onions into usable amounts like 1/4 cup or 1/2 cup.
- Use freezer bags, containers or parchment to prevent freezer burn.
- Remove as much air as possible and seal tightly.
- Label bags with contents and date.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Caramelized Onion Freezer Tips
Follow these tips for the best frozen caramelized onions:
- Cook onions low and slow – Quickly sautéed onions won’t have the same flavor or keep as well.
- Add a bit of oil or butter while cooking to prevent them from drying out in the freezer.
- Cut larger pieces rather than finely chopping for better texture.
- Freeze in flat packs rather than a big clump to make defrosting easier.
- Double wrap bags and containers to prevent freezer burn.
- Squeeze out excess air before sealing to prevent ice crystals.
- Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before using.
How to Use Frozen Caramelized Onions
Frozen caramelized onions retain their flavor and soft texture very well. They can be used in any recipe calling for caramelized onions just like fresh. Here are some ways to use them:
- Sauté into quiches, frittatas or omelets
- Add to pasta dishes, pizza and flatbreads
- Mix into mashed potatoes or potato salad
- Stir into risottos, pilafs and stuffed veggies
- Top meats, chicken or fish before roasting
- Mix into dips, spreads and filler for wraps
- Add richness and depth to soups, stews and chilis
- Stir into rice or grain bowls
Frozen caramelized onions are great sprinkled on top of nearly any savory dish. Their concentrated flavor enhances everything from sandwiches to burgers to roasted vegetables. Try tossing some into a skillet with olive oil and garlic for a quick sauteed onion side dish.
Onion Storage Chart
Use this chart as a guide for how long different types of onions can be stored:
| Onion Type | Fresh Storage | Frozen Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Raw onions | 2-4 weeks | 10-12 months |
| Cooked onions | 5-7 days | 2-3 months |
| Caramelized onions | 5-7 days | 3 months |
Signs of Bad Frozen Caramelized Onions
Look out for these signs that frozen caramelized onions have gone bad:
- Unusual soft or limp texture
- Translucent, mushy appearance
- Off smells like fermentation
- Mold growth
- Oddly darkened or discolored patches
If your frozen onions display any of these signs, it’s best to discard them. Using spoiled frozen produce can lead to foodborne illness.
Storing Leftover Caramelized Onions
Have leftover fresh caramelized onions you won’t use right away? Here are some storage tips:
- Fridge: Transfer to an airtight container. They’ll keep 5-7 days.
- Freezer: Allow onions to cool completely, then freeze in portions. Use within 3 months for best quality.
- Oil: Cover completely with olive or vegetable oil in a jar or storage container. Keeps 2-3 weeks in the fridge.
Storing in oil is a great way to keep caramelized onions fresh for a bit longer. The oil prevents air exposure which can cause spoilage.
Conclusion
Freezing is an excellent way to preserve caramelized onions to have their robust flavor on hand anytime. Allow onions to fully caramelize and cool before portioning and storing in airtight containers or bags. Frozen properly, they can keep for 2-3 months. Defrost before using in your favorite recipes. With a batch of frozen caramelized onions in the freezer, you can elevate soups, stews, pizzas, pastas and more in minutes with their rich, sweet oniony flavor.