Pearl onions are a popular ingredient in dishes such as green beans almondine and chicken cordon bleu.
However, they can be difficult to find and expensive.
In this article, we’ll provide a list of 8 substitutes for pearl onions that you can use in your favorite recipes.
We’ll also explain the differences and similarities between the substitutes so you can make an informed decision when swapping them in your recipes.
Let’s get started!
Substitutes for Pearl Onions
- Fennel Bulb
- Carrots
- Celery
- Boiling Onions
- Cipollini
- Cocktail Onions
- Shallots
- Frozen Pearl Onions
Fennel Bulb
The fennel bulb is a crunchy and flavorful vegetable that can be used in place of pearl onions.
There are many benefits to using fennel bulbs as a substitute for pearl onions.
For one, they are much easier to peel and prepare.
They also have a more robust flavor that can add a new dimension to any dish.
In addition, fennel bulbs are far less likely to cause indigestion than pearl onions.
When choosing a recipe to substitute fennel bulbs, it is important to keep these things in mind.
Fennel bulbs can be used in most recipes that call for pearl onions, but they may change the flavor profile of the dish slightly.
It is also important to note that fennel bulbs will not caramelize in the same way as pearl onions, so they may not be suitable for all recipes.
Carrots
Carrots are a great substitute for pearl onions. They can be used in many of the same recipes and have many of the same benefits.
Carrots are a good source of fiber and vitamins, and they are low in calories.
They also have a subtle sweetness that can enhance the flavor of many dishes.
When substituting carrots for pearl onions, it is important to remember that they will cook more quickly than onions.
Therefore, it is important to chop them into smaller pieces or cook them for a shorter period of time.
Celery
There are many reasons why someone might want to use celery as a substitute for pearl onions in a recipe.
Perhaps they are looking for a lower-calorie option, or they simply do not have any pearl onions on hand.
Regardless of the reason, celery is a perfectly suitable substitute. It has a similar crunchy texture and can be used in both raw and cooked dishes.
Plus, celery is a source of vitamin C and fiber, making it a healthier choice than pearl onions.
When substituting celery for pearl onions, it is important to keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.
Celery is milder than onions, so it may require additional seasoning. It is also important to chop the celery into small pieces to ensure that it cooks evenly.
Boiling Onions
In many recipes, pearl onions can be substituted with boiling onions. Boiling onions have a milder flavor than pearl onions, so they are a good choice if you want the onion flavor to be more subtle.
However, boiling onions can also be used in cases where you want the onion flavor to be more pronounced.
When substituting boiling onions for pearl onions, you may need to adjust the cooking time as well. Pearl onions usually take longer to cook than boiling onions.
Boiling onions are a good choice for recipes that call for cooked onions, such as soups and stews.
You can also use boiling onions as a garnish or topping for salads and main dishes.
Cipollini
Cipollini onions are a type of Italian onion that is small and round, with a sweet flavor.
They can be used as a substitute for pearl onions in many recipes. When used as a substitute, they add sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
In addition, cipollini onions are more tender than pearl onions and can be cooked more quickly.
When substituting in a recipe, cook the cipollini onions for half the time of the pearl onions.
Cipollini onions can be used in any recipe that calls for pearl onions or other small onions. They are especially good in stews, soups, and sauces.
When using cipollini onions as a substitute, keep in mind that they will add sweetness to the dish.
If you do not want the dish to be sweet, you may want to reduce the amount of sugar called for in the recipe.
Cocktail Onions
In a pinch, cocktail onions can be used as a substitute for pearl onions. While they are not an exact match in terms of flavor or size, cocktail onions will still add a bit of sweetness and acidity to a dish.
They can be used in any recipe that calls for pearl onions, including soups, stews, and casseroles.
When substituting cocktail onions for pearl onions, it is important to keep in mind that they will cook more quickly than pearl onions.
As a result, you may need to add them to the dish earlier in the cooking process.
Additionally, because they are smaller than pearl onions, they may not provide the same visual impact.
Shallots
Shallots have a similar flavor and can be used in many of the same dishes.
One benefit of using shallots is that they’re easier to peel than pearl onions. They also don’t require as much cooking time to soften.
As a result, they can be a great choice when you’re short on time or preparing a dish that doesn’t need to cook for very long.
Shallots can be used in any recipe that calls for pearl onions, including soups, stews, and stir-fries.
When substituting shallots for pearl onions, you may need to use a little less since they are more potent.
Frozen Pearl Onions
There are many reasons why you might want to consider using frozen pearl onions as a substitute for fresh pearl onions.
First of all, they are much easier to prepare – simply pop them in the microwave or oven, and they’re ready to go.
Secondly, they tend to be more affordable than fresh pearl onions.
Thirdly, frozen pearl onions still retain their nutritional value, so you can be sure you’re getting all the benefits of fresh onions without having to worry about them going bad.
Finally, frozen pearl onions are extremely versatile and can be used in a wide variety of recipes.
FAQ
What is the best pearl onion substitute?
The best pearl onion substitute depends on your recipe. If you’re looking for a similar flavor, we recommend fennel bulb, cipollini, or cocktail onions.
For a milder flavor, try boiling onions or shallots. If you’re looking for a crunchy texture, carrots or celery are good substitutes.
What can I use if I don’t have pearl onions?
If you don’t have pearl onions, you can use a fennel bulb, cipollini, cocktail onions, boiling onions, or shallots.
These substitutes will provide a similar flavor to pearl onions.
Can I use frozen pearl onions as a substitute?
Yes, you can use frozen pearl onions as a substitute for fresh pearl onions. However, we recommend thawing them before using them in your recipe.
Conclusion
Now that you know some of the best pearl onion substitutes, it’s time to head to the kitchen!
With these substitutes, you’ll be able to create delicious dishes without having to worry about pearl onions going bad.