How to Cut Green Onions

Last updated on Jan 11, 2024
Jason Kurtz

From soups and salads to stir-fries and garnishes, green onions add a fresh and vibrant flavor to many recipes. While cutting green onions may seem like a simple task, there are several factors that you should take into account to ensure that you achieve the desired results. We'll walk you through the proper way to cut green onions below.

How to Cut Green Onions Video

Watch the video below for a step-by-step breakdown of the different ways to cut green onions:

What Are Green Onions?

A bundle of green onions sitting on a circular table

Green onions, also known as scallions, are young onions harvested before they fully mature. As a result, they have an underdeveloped bulb and long, green leaves. One of the defining characteristics of green onions is their mild flavor compared to other types of onions. Their taste is less pungent and sharp, and they can be used for a wide range of culinary applications. Green onions enhance the visual appeal of your signature dishes and can be sauteed, grilled, and roasted. It's important to note that they are a relatively inexpensive ingredient, making them accessible to commercial kitchens with different budgets.

What Part of the Green Onion Do You Use?

Although every part of a green onion is edible, most recipes call for the white and pale green portion. The dark green portion is usually reserved for garnishing purposes. It's worth noting that most grocery stores sell green onions without the bulb attached.

How to Cut a Green Onion

The way you cut green onions can impact the texture and flavor of your final dish, so you should always read your recipe before cutting. Follow these steps to cut green onions the right way and get the best results:

  1. Clean the onions: Begin by cleaning your green onions. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel before proceeding.
  2. Trim the onions: Remove the root ends of the green onions, as they can be stringy and tough to chew. Next, trim the tips of the green leaves to make sure your onions are uniform. Be sure to remove any layers that seem unsightly or wilted.
  3. Cut the onions: The types of cuts you make will vary depending on the recipes you are preparing. Some recipes may call for the onions finely chopped, which you can achieve by holding them together with one hand while using the other hand to make even, small cuts. Other recipes call for diagonal cuts, which you can perform by positioning the knife at a 45-degree angle. Some recipes may also call for thick slices, which require you to hold the trimmed onions together and make perpendicular cuts.

How to Store Green Onions

A large quantity of green onions bundled into separate groups with rubber bands

When it comes to storing green onions, there are two main methods to keep them ready for use: in the refrigerator and the freezer. Each method has its own steps and considerations, and you should use the method that best fits your culinary needs.

  • Storing green onions in the refrigerator: When stored properly in the refrigerator, green onions can last up to 5 days. Cut them in advance and place them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the onions from wilting quickly. For the best results, separate the whites and greens of the green onions before storing them.
  • Storing green onions in the freezer: Green onions can last up to 4 months in the freezer. Before freezing, wash the green onions thoroughly and allow them to completely dry to prevent them from becoming mushy or developing freezer burn. Once dry, you can freeze them whole or chop them into smaller pieces depending on preference. Place them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and unwanted odors from seeping in.

How to Keep Green Onions Fresh

An overhead view of a white table with a large bowl of cut green onions on top next to a bundle of green onions

There are several methods you can use to keep green onions fresh. Not only does this ensure a better product, but it also allows you to reduce food costs. Use the tips outlined below to ensure proper storage conditions and reduce the risk of damage or spoilage.

  • Transport with care: Green onions can easily be damaged if not handled gently. Avoid placing heavy items on top of the green onions or overcrowding them during transportation.
  • Keep the roots intact: It's crucial to keep roots intact until you are ready to use them. The root is essential for drawing moisture and nutrients into the plant, which helps to keep the leaves crisp and vibrant. It's also important to trim any brown or wilted leaves before storage.
  • Maintain moisture: To keep the leaves from drying out, place the green onions in a container with a damp paper towel or wrap them loosely in a damp cloth. Doing so retains moisture and keeps the leaves firm and fresh during storage.
  • Keep bulbs damp: In addition to keeping the leaves hydrated, ensure that the bulbs remain damp. If the bulbs dry out, your onions may lose flavor and texture.

Green Onion Substitute

If your recipe calls for green onions but you don't have any on hand, there are a few substitutes you can use. These substitutes will vary in flavor and texture but can be used in a pinch if needed. Keep in mind that the substitution ratios may vary depending on the recipe and personal preference. It's always a good idea to taste as you go and adjust the amount of substitute accordingly.

  • Chives: Chives are smaller and more delicate than green onions. They have a mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.
  • Shallots: Shallots are the most comparable in terms of flavor to green onions. They have a similar mild taste and are uniform in texture and color.
  • Leeks: The white and pale green areas of leeks have a mild onion flavor that can mimic the taste of green onions when cooked.

Because of their distinct flavor and versatility, green onions are a popular ingredient in many cuisines. By following the information outlined above, you can prepare green onions the right way and ensure they stay fresh and flavorful.

The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. Please refer to our Content Policy for more details.
External Link

You are about to leave the security of WebstaurantStore.com.

We are not responsible for the privacy policy or any content, links or software, or any consequences from your access to or use of the technologies, websites, information and programs made available on this new site.

Do you want to proceed?