Storage and Handling of Vidalia®Onions...

 

There are several different ways to store Vidalia Onions but the 3 basics are to keep them cool, dry and separated.

Here are some of the most popular ways to extend their shelf life once you've purchased them.

  • *In the refrigerator, wrap separately in paper towels or newspaper. This is a good way to preserve the onions for a longer time...or
  • *In the legs of clean sheer pantyhose. Place a Vidalia Onion in the pantyhose, tie a knot then repeat the process until the leg of the panty hose is full.
  • *Hang the panty hose in a cool dry well ventilated area. When you are ready for another onion, just cut above the onion and under the knot...or
  • * In a cool dry place, place the Vidalias on an elevated screen or rack, making sure that the onions are not touching each other.

Other methods include drying and freezing

  • *Vidalia Onions can be chopped and dried in the oven. Use the lowest setting and remove when thoroughly dry, but not brown. Store at room temperature in airtight containers.
  • * Vidalia Onions can also be frozen. To do this , chop the onions and place in a cookie sheet in the freezer. When frozen, remove and place in freezer containers or bags, and seal. This allows you to remove the amount you want when you want it. Or, you can freeze an onion whole. Jumbos can be peeled, washed, cored and dropped into a plastic bag. once frozen, they can be removed like ice cubes. Freezing changes the onions' texture, so frozen onions should be used for cooking only. Whole frozen Vidalias can be baked.
  • *The mild flavor of Vidalia Onions makes them favorites in salads and sandwiches. Vidalias add a unique flavor to any dish. They are, however, delicious all by themselves, raw or baked.
  • *Place a whole, raw, unpeeled Vidalia Onion in the refrigerator and chill for approximately one hour before serving, or peel and cut into slices and place in a bowl of ice water for approximately 30 minutes and then drain on paper towels. Either of these methods will help bring out a sweeter flavor when eating raw Vidalias.
  • *To bake a Vidalia Onion, peel, then cut off the top and bottom to make it sit flat. Place a pat of butter on top and microwave on high for 7 minutes, or wrap securely in foil and bake at 350*F for 45 minutes or until tender.