Homemade onion soup mix is one of those staple recipes that can completely transform your cooking. Besides replacing the famous store-bought packet, this version delivers more flavor, better value, and full control over the ingredients.
This homemade version yields a generous amount, contains no preservatives, and has that rich aroma and savory taste that works perfectly with meats, sauces, meatballs, and stews. Best of all, it’s easy to make using simple pantry ingredients.
If you value convenience without sacrificing flavor, this homemade onion soup mix will quickly become a must-have in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 3 medium onions, finely chopped (or grated, if preferred)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Substitution: whole wheat flour can be used for a more rustic version
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- A pinch of sweet paprika
- Black pepper to taste
- Olive oil (enough for sautéing)
Instructions
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté, stirring occasionally, until they begin to dry out and brown evenly.
- Add the salt and sugar during the sautéing process to help caramelize the onions.
- Once the onions are lightly golden, add the paprika and stir well.
- Add the all-purpose flour and cornstarch.
- Stir constantly to cook the flours and prevent burning.
- Continue stirring for about 8 to 10 minutes, until the raw flour smell disappears and the aroma becomes rich and savory.
- Adjust the black pepper, turn off the heat, and let the mixture cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container.
Chef’s Tips / Variations
- Constant stirring is essential to prevent burning and ensure even flavor.
- For a deeper flavor, allow the onions to caramelize well without letting them get too dark.
- This recipe yields the equivalent of 4 to 5 store-bought packets.
- Perfect for ground beef, sauces, meatballs, stews, and even savory crackers.
- For a gluten-free version, replace the all-purpose flour with additional cornstarch.
Prep Time, Yield, and Difficulty
- Total time: approximately 20 minutes
- Yield: about 4 to 5 portions equivalent to commercial onion soup mix
- Difficulty level: easy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I completely replace store-bought onion soup mix with this homemade version?
Yes. It can be used the same way in any recipe.
2. Should it be stored in the refrigerator?
Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
3. Can I freeze homemade onion soup mix?
Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect the texture of the flours.
Conclusion
Once you try this homemade onion soup mix, you’ll hardly want to go back to the store-bought version. It’s more affordable, more flavorful, and incredibly versatile.
If you enjoyed this recipe, leave a comment sharing how you used it, save it for later, or share it with someone who loves to cook.