What Is the Best Substitute for Onions in Recipes?

Emma Christensen
Emma Christensen
Emma is a former editor for The Kitchn and a graduate of the Cambridge School for Culinary Arts. She is the author of True Brews and Brew Better Beer. Check out her website for more cooking stories
updated May 1, 2019
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Q: My wife’s childhood was riddled with stomachaches. After moving away and cooking for herself, she realized that onions were the cause. We’ve been onion- and shallot-free (and stomachache-free) for almost 20 years. We don’t miss the flavor, but I can’t help but think that the recipe step of sautéing onions is important.

(Giving spices a chance to release their flavors into the oil/butter/etc.) I’ve tried substituting celery, apples, and even finely chopped collard green stems, but those textures don’t fade away like an onion can melt into the background. What can I use for that important step of so many dishes?

Sent by Chad

Editor: This is a (very!) old Good Question that might have some good ideas for you:

Readers, what ideas do you have?

Next question?

Filed in:
Ingredient
Vegetables