Are you looking for a way to preserve the flavor of onions year-round? Making dehydrated onion slices is a fantastic solution! Using a dehydrator, you can transform fresh onions into flavorful, crispy slices that can enhance a variety of dishes.
This simple recipe allows you to control the thickness of your slices and the intensity of flavor. Once dehydrated, these onion slices can be added to soups, stews, or even used as a topping for salads, bringing a burst of sweetness and crunch.
Not only does drying onions keep them from spoiling, but it also intensifies their taste, making them a convenient and versatile ingredient in your pantry.
Visual Appeal of Dehydrated Onions
Golden dehydrated onion slices present an inviting visual that captures the essence of this versatile ingredient.
Spread across a wooden cutting board, these irregularly shaped slices highlight their crisp texture.
The warm natural light enhances their golden hue, making them look even more appealing.
Preparation for Dehydration
To achieve perfectly dehydrated onion slices, start with fresh onions.
Peeling and slicing them into thin pieces is essential, as this allows for even drying.
Some may choose to soak the slices in a vinegar solution for a milder taste, providing an opportunity to customize flavor intensity.
The Art of Dehydrating
Using a dehydrator simplifies the drying process significantly.
By arranging the onion slices in a single layer on the trays, you ensure consistent dehydration.
Setting the dehydrator to a low temperature allows the onions to dry thoroughly, resulting in crispy bites that can enhance various dishes.
Storage and Longevity
Once the dehydration process is complete, proper storage is crucial.
Allow the slices to cool before transferring them to airtight containers.
Placed in a cool, dark environment, these dehydrated onions can last for months, ready to elevate your culinary creations.
Versatile Culinary Uses
Dehydrated onion slices are not just for snacking; they are a fantastic addition to numerous recipes.
Rehydrating them is simple, bringing back their savory essence to enrich soups, stews, or salads.
Their concentrated flavor makes them an excellent choice for enhancing dishes without the need for fresh ingredients.
Health Benefits of Dehydrated Onions
Beyond flavor, dehydrated onion slices offer nutritional benefits.
With low calories and negligible fat, they are a great addition to a balanced diet.
Additionally, their high fiber content contributes to overall health while adding a delightful crunch to meals.
Easy Steps to Make Dehydrated Onion Slices

These dehydrated onion slices are crispy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to store. When rehydrated, they regain their savory taste and can add a delightful kick to any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large onions (any variety)
- Optional: salt for seasoning
Instructions
- Prepare the Onions: Peel the onions and slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Pre-Treat (Optional): If you want a milder flavor, soak the onion slices in a solution of water and vinegar for 10 minutes, then rinse and pat dry.
- Arrange the Slices: Place the onion slices on the dehydrator trays in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap.
- Dehydrate: Set your dehydrator to 125°F (52°C) and dehydrate the onions for 8-12 hours, or until they are completely dry and brittle.
- Store: Once fully dried, let them cool and then store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-12 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: Approximately 2 cups of dehydrated onions
- Calories: 40kcal per serving
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 9g

Hi all! I’m Cora Benson, and I’ve been blogging about food, recipes and things that happen in my kitchen since 2019.