Substitute for Red Onions: 3 Smart Options
The best substitute for red onions is Pickled Red Onions at a Use 75% ratio. There are 2 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Pickled Red Onions
Use 75%
You can use Pickled Red Onions in place of red onions when needed. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What are the other substitutes for red onions?
Caramelized Red Onions
Use 50%
You can use Caramelized Red Onions in place of red onions when needed. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than red onions, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
Red Onion Powder
Use 6%
Red Onion Powder is a workable stand-in for red onions. Use 6% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than red onions, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. It is especially useful in soups and dry rubs.
What should you know before substituting red onions?
Pickled Red Onions is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to red onions in everyday cooking. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Texture matters as much as flavor, especially in stir-fries, salads, and quick-cooked dishes.
How do you substitute red onions in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for red onions and you need an alternative, there are 3 tested substitutes available. Pickled Red Onions is the best overall replacement, used at a Use 75% ratio. The right substitute depends on the role red onions plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for red onions depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Pickled Red Onions (Use 75%), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Caramelized Red Onions (Use 50%) is another reliable choice. You can use Caramelized Red Onions in place of red onions when needed. Use 50% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. This option is more concentrated than red onions, so small adjustments make a noticeable difference. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
When substituting red onions, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Red Onions?
Pickled Red Onions is the best place to start for red onions. Use 75% of the original amount and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Red Onions?
This page lists 3 substitutes for red onions. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.