Most people toss onion skins straight into the trash—but those papery peels are packed with flavor. With just a few simple steps, you can turn them into a fragrant homemade onion powder that adds depth to soups, sauces, meats, and vegetables. This zero-waste kitchen trick is budget-friendly, sustainable, and surprisingly delicious.
What Is Onion Skin Powder?
Unlike traditional onion powder made from whole onions, this version uses the dry outer skins. These peels contain natural antioxidants like quercetin and deliver a deep, savory onion flavor once dried and ground. It’s an old-school technique that turns scraps into a powerful seasoning.
Why You’ll Love This Method
Zero waste: Uses onion peels you’d normally throw away
Cost-effective: No need to buy store-bought spices
Rich flavor: More earthy and aromatic than many commercial powders
Simple tools: Works with a microwave, dehydrator, or oven
Versatile: Great for soups, rubs, eggs, vegetables, and marinades
Ingredients
Onion skins (from yellow, red, or white onions)
How to Make Onion Powder from Skins
Step 1: Collect and Clean the Skins
Each time you peel an onion, save the dry outer layers. Once you have enough to loosely cover a plate, rinse them under cool running water to remove dirt or dust. Pat completely dry with a clean towel.
Step 2: Dry the Onion Skins
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