The Key To McDonald's Minced Onion Is Starting With Dehydrated Onions

McDonald's signature minced onions are a staple in their burgers, providing a distinct flavor and texture that many fast-food enthusiasts recognize instantly. The key to achieving this unique taste and consistency lies in the use of dehydrated onions. These onions are not only cost-effective but also offer a longer shelf life, ensuring that McDonald's can maintain a consistent supply of fresh-tasting onions worldwide. The process begins with dehydrating onions, which involves removing moisture to preserve them. When preparing these onions for use in their kitchens, McDonald's rehydrates them by soaking them in water. This process not only restores their natural flavor but also gives them the soft texture that complements the other ingredients in their burgers. By using dehydrated onions, McDonald's can easily manage inventory and reduce waste, as they can control the rehydration process based on demand. Additionally, this method ensures that the characteristic onion flavor remains consistent across all locations, contributing to the iconic taste that customers expect. This simple yet effective technique demonstrates McDonald's commitment to delivering a uniform dining experience, showcasing how even small details like onion preparation play a crucial role in their global success.
Advertisement

How to recreate McDonald's minced onion

If you’d like to make this condiment at home, all you need is a jar of dehydrated onions and some warm water. Two tablespoons of these onions is roughly equivalent to a medium fresh onion, yielding just over a quarter cup. Soak the onions for about 15 minutes, then drain them, and there you have it: a homemade version of this restaurant favorite.

You can even prepare your own dehydrated onions, which is a handy air fryer trick you might wish you had discovered earlier. Simply chop your choice of onion—whether yellow, red, or sweet shallots—and place them in your dehydrator at approximately 135 degrees Fahrenheit for four to six hours. Alternatively, you can use a conventional oven set to around 140 degrees Fahrenheit until they are completely crisp.

These little morsels are fantastic on burgers, but they can also enhance a variety of dishes, such as adding them to your secret meatloaf recipes or transforming your cornbread. Once you unlock the secret to these delicious McDonald's staples, you'll open the door to a whole new realm of flavor.

Recommended

Next up

Advertisement