What can I substitute for onion powder?
Running low on onion powder? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.
About onion powder
Onion powder is a dehydrated and finely ground spice made from dried onions, delivering a concentrated savoury flavour without the moisture or texture of fresh onions. It is a pantry staple used to season spice rubs, marinades, soups, sauces, and baked goods where a smooth, consistent onion flavour is desired. Its fine texture allows it to blend seamlessly into dry mixes and coatings, making it particularly useful in applications where raw onion would be unsuitable.
Best substitute
onion flakes
Dehydrated onion flakes are essentially the same product as onion powder but in a coarser form. They rehydrate well in moist dishes but should be ground in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle if a smooth texture is needed.
Use 1 tbsp onion flakes for every 1 tsp onion powder
soupsstewsmarinadesspice rubsNot suitable for: smooth dry rubs
Alternative
fresh onion
Finely minced or grated fresh onion can replicate the flavour of onion powder but adds significant moisture and texture. It works best in cooked dishes, sauces, and marinades where the liquid content can be absorbed.
Use 3 tbsp finely minced fresh onion for every 1 tsp onion powder — reduce other liquids slightly if needed
soupssaucesmarinadescooked dishesNot suitable for: dry rubsNot suitable for: dry baking mixes
Alternative
What is onion powder called in other countries?
| Country | Name |
|---|---|
| Australia | onion powder |
| Canada | onion powder |
| New Zealand | onion powder |
| United Kingdom | onion powder |
| United States | onion powder |
Common names for onion powder
powdered oniondehydrated onion powderdried onion powder