Preparing for the winter months often involves stocking up on staples that last, and onions are a perfect candidate due to their long shelf life when stored properly. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to store your onions effectively, so they remain fresh for up to two years!
Selecting the Right Onions
The first step in long-term onion storage is choosing the right type. Look for dry bulb onions, which are better suited for storage than their sweeter counterparts. Opt for onions that are firm, have crispy outer skins, and show no signs of sprouting or damage.
Proper Preparation
Before storing, it’s crucial to cure the onions to ensure they last through the colder months. Here’s how you can do it:
- Curing:
- Lay the onions out in a single layer in a warm, dry, well-ventilated place, like a covered porch or a shed. Allow them to dry for two to three weeks until the outer skins rustle when handled, and the necks are tight.
- Trimming:
- Once cured, trim off any roots with scissors. Be careful not to cut into the bulbs themselves. Also, peel off any loose or excess skins.
