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Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of onion?

Onion powder, Shallots and Leeks (white parts) are the easiest swaps. Below: 6 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

Onion powder. Use the same amount. 1 tbsp powder = 1 medium onion.

Adjust: Rehydrate if recipe relies on onion texture.

  1. Onion powder

    Drop-in swap

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    1 tbsp powder = 1 medium onion.

    Flavor
    Milder, concentrated.
    Texture
    Dissolves.
    Moisture
    None.
    Adjust
    Rehydrate if recipe relies on onion texture.
    Best for
    Dry rubs, Spice blends, Sauces

    vegan

  2. Shallots

    Drop-in swap

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Milder, more elevated flavor.

    Flavor
    Milder, sweeter.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same fresh vegetable moisture.
    Adjust
    Use 1:1 by count.
    Best for
    Any recipe, Dressings, Sauces

    vegan

  3. Leeks (white parts)

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Milder. Clean well — gritty inside leaves.

    Flavor
    Mild, sweet.
    Texture
    Same when cooked.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Use whites and very light green only.
    Best for
    Soups, Stews, Braises

    vegan

  4. Fennel bulb

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Sweet, anise-like. Different flavor profile.

    Flavor
    Anise/licorice undertone.
    Texture
    Same crunch.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Use where anise flavor acceptable.
    Best for
    Salads, Braising, Mediterranean

    vegan

  5. Celery

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Different flavor — no allium note.

    Flavor
    Bitter, green.
    Texture
    Same crunch.
    Moisture
    Higher water content.
    Adjust
    Adds missing crunch not flavor.
    Best for
    Mirepoix base, Soups

    vegan

  6. Chives

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Mild. Raw only usually.

    Flavor
    Very mild onion.
    Texture
    Thin strands.
    Moisture
    High.
    Adjust
    Use fresh, only as garnish.
    Best for
    Garnish, Salads, Dips

    vegan

Common questions

What is the best substitute for onion?

Onion powder is the closest swap. Use the same amount. 1 tbsp powder = 1 medium onion.

What is a vegan substitute for onion?

Good vegan options are Onion powder, Shallots, Leeks (white parts) and Fennel bulb.

How much should I use instead of onion?

It depends on the swap. Onion powder: Use the same amount. Shallots: Use the same amount. Leeks (white parts): Use the same amount.

Recipes that use onion

Scale it to your recipe

Enter the amount you need and the substitution tool works out the exact quantity. Or ask the chef how the swap will change your dish.

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