Have you ever cooked a large batch of caramelized onions, only to have them go bad before you could finish them all? Are you wondering if can you freeze caramelized onions?
Can You Freeze Caramelized Onions?
Yes, freezing caramelized onions will undoubtedly change both their taste and texture. They will become chewier and significantly less flavorful the longer they are frozen; However, rumor has it that they’re still good to go up to 3 months post-freeze.
How To Freeze Caramelized Onions?
You can freeze caramelized onions using either of two methods. The first is to lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing them solid before storing them in a freezer bag or container. Another method is cook the onions before freezing, saving you time when they’re needed later. In this case, store cooked onions directly into a freezer bag or container.
Not sure what to do with all those caramelize onions? If you don’t want Vidalia onions or red onions to go bad, a great option is to freeze them! Here are some tips on how to prep your onions for freezing:
1. Once your onions have cooled, you can then freeze them.
2. Store the onions in an airtight container or bag.
3. Get as much air out of the container or bag as possible before sealing it shut.
4. Date and label the container or bag with its contents.
5. For best results, freeze onions within 6 months.
6. If you want to use frozen caramelized onions, leave them in the fridge to thaw overnight or put them in a bowl of warm water for 30 minutes.
How To Thaw Frozen Caramelized Onions
Remove the onions from their packaging and place them in a colander. Rinse with lukewarm water for a few minutes, or until they’re thawed. Use the onions immediately, or transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days.
How Long Do Caramelized Onions Last Outside at Room Temperature?
The answer to this question is not concrete because it fluctuates based on numerous things, like the kind of onion or how humid it is where you live. With that being said, they will probably last3-4 days if kept at room temperature.
It’s important to keep onions in a cool, dry place like inside a pantry or cabinet instead of the fridge because storing them in the fridge will make them spoil prematurely. If you’re not going to use them within a few days, though, you can freeze them for later use.
How Long Do Caramelized Onions Last in the Fridge?
Caramelized onion last up to one week when refrigerated and stored in an airtight container. They are safe to eat after one week, but the taste will diminish over time.
How to Freeze Raw Onions?
It might be possible to freeze diced onions or an entire onion, but it would be challenging to use and store in the freezer. A much better solution is to chop or sliced onions before freezing them, which will help them last up to six months. If you want to speed up the chopping or slicing process, feel free to use a food processor. Just make sure pieces aren’t too small since they tendto turn mushy when frozen and thawed again.
If you don’t want your fridge (or house) smelling like onions, it’s important to use heavy-duty freezer bags and store them away from any other foods. To be extra safe, double bag the onions. Once they’re in the bag, get rid of as much air as possible by flattening the bags; this will also make them quicker to defrost and freeze flat. And always remember to label and date what’s inside!
Can You Freeze Caramelized Onions – Bottom Line
Yes, you can freeze caramelized onions to extend their shelf life. Every time you find yourself making caramelized onions, make sure to prep them properly before freezing onions by laying them out in a single layer or cooking them beforehand, and store in an airtight container or bag.
Remember to label and date the contents as well. Thaw frozen onions by rinsing with lukewarm water or leaving them in the fridge overnight before using them in your french onion soup or any other dish.
Enjoy your frozen caramelized onions for up to six months! Happy cooking.
