Red Onion substitutes
Red Onion is Mild, sweet onion with purple skin, used in cooking and raw preparations.
Use this
Yellow Onion
Use the same amount as the red onion you are replacing
The best substitutes for red onion are yellow onion, white onion, or shallots, depending on the use.
At a glance
| # | Substitute | Instead of red onion, use |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Yellow Onion | Same amount |
| 2 | White Onion | Same amount |
| 3 | Shallots | Same amount |
| 4 | Sweet Onion | Same amount |
| 5 | Vidalia Onion | Same amount |
| 6 | Walla Walla Onion | Same amount |
Every red onion substitute
Substitutes for Red Onion with ratios
1. Yellow Onion
Use the same amount
Most common onion with similar flavor profile
What changes
2. White Onion
Use the same amount
Mild onion with similar sweetness
What changes
3. Shallots
Use the same amount
Small, mild onion with delicate flavor
What changes
4. Sweet Onion
Use the same amount
Very sweet onion with mild flavor
What changes
5. Vidalia Onion
Use the same amount
Sweet, mild onion from Georgia
What changes
6. Walla Walla Onion
Use the same amount
Sweet, mild onion from Washington state
What changes
Tips for substituting red onion
- Red onion adds mild, sweet flavor to dishes
- It's perfect for raw preparations like salads and salsas
- Pairs well with tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh herbs
- Great for pickling due to its mild flavor
- Can be caramelized for a sweet, rich flavor
- Store in a cool, dry place away from potatoes
Questions about red onion substitutes
Can I use yellow onion instead of red onion?
Yes, yellow onion is a good substitute for red onion. It has a slightly stronger flavor and is more pungent when raw, but works well in most recipes.
What's the difference between red onion and yellow onion?
Red onion has a mild, sweet flavor and purple skin, while yellow onion has a stronger, more pungent flavor and yellow skin. Red onion is better for raw use, while yellow onion is better for cooking.
Can I use shallots instead of red onion?
Yes, shallots can work as a substitute, though they have a more delicate flavor and are smaller. They're often preferred in fine cooking and French cuisine.
Why is red onion so popular in cooking?
Red onion is popular because it has a mild, sweet flavor that's perfect for raw preparations like salads and salsas, and it's less pungent than other onion varieties.