Onions are among the most versatile staples in our kitchens. Beyond their role in cooking, where they add everything from savory depth to a hint of sweetness, they offer surprising uses outside the culinary realm. Whether it’s for cleaning, skincare, or health benefits, onions are far more than just a cooking ingredient. Here are eight clever and unexpected ways to use onions at home that you may not have considered before!
Onions can significantly reduce your cooking time, particularly when preparing meat dishes. To use this trick, cut a red onion into quarters, leaving the skin intact, rinse it thoroughly to remove any pesticides, and boil it for at least three minutes. The onion enhances the meat with a rich, savory flavor and helps it cook faster. The result? A beautifully pink-hued dish with a taste that will delight your palate.
Stop throwing away onion peels! Toss them into your stew or soup. The peels will give your dish a beautiful brownish color and an added layer of flavor. Feel free to customize the dish with additional ingredients such as fish or mushrooms for a truly delightful meal.
Onions are surprisingly useful for cleaning. Chopped onions can help remove carbon buildup from pans and grills and even tackle rust on gardening tools. After scrubbing, simply wash the items with water and dish soap to eliminate any lingering odors or residue. This method is a natural, eco-friendly alternative to using harsh chemical cleaners.
Keep your leftover onion pieces fresh for longer by rubbing them with salt and placing them on a plate with the chopped side facing down. This method helps to prevent food waste by preserving the onion’s freshness, making sure you can use them in your next meal.
5. Treat Stubborn Stains
Struggling with stubborn yellow stains on your clothes, particularly from sweat? Onion juice offers an effective, natural solution. Just apply the juice directly to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wash the garment as you normally would. You’ll be amazed at how easily the stain disappears!
Onions can help you to clean your footwear. Whether your shoes have a fabric, leather, or rubber sole, onions can remove grime and stains. This quick and natural method will leave your shoes looking fresh without the need for harsh chemicals.
With their antimicrobial properties, onions are excellent for calming insect bites and soothing skin irritations. Apply fresh onion juice directly to the affected area to help reduce inflammation and relieve itching. It’s a natural and effective solution for everyday skin discomforts.
Onions are not only good for your body—but they’re great for your hair too! Soak onion peels in water for a few hours and use the infused liquid as a scalp treatment. This natural remedy strengthens your hair, helps remove dandruff, and adds volume. Apply it as a mask, leave it on for two hours, then wash your hair as usual for healthier, fuller hair.
Additionally, onion juice provides numerous health benefits. It can soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation. For a better taste, mix the juice with honey. This simple drink not only relieves symptoms but also offers a natural boost to your health.
Though onions are a powerhouse of health benefits, they should be consumed in moderation, especially for those with diabetes, as they can lower blood sugar levels. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also limit their intake.
