Making meatloaf, calls for 1/4 chopped onion, I have some frozen diced onions.....

[applecrisp]

I want to make a meatloaf and the recipe calls for 1/4 chopped onion. I have an onion on hand, but I was wondering if I could use some of the diced onions I have in the freezer (I think I chopped it a few weeks ago and froze).

I can't recall using frozen onion before, and was wondering if it would be ok for the mealoaf (it doesn't call for sauteeing the veggies). Would it be watery or something? Should I saute? Defrost before saucteeing?

And, wondering if frozen onions are just not really ideal for recipes, although convenient.

Many thanks,

[vabelle35]

I buy frozen chopped onions all the time. If it's for something I'm cooking, I use the frozen. If it's for something uncooked, I use fresh.

You shouldn't have a problem. I made the Herbed Meatloaf with Sundried Tomato Gravy a few weeks ago with frozen chopped onions and it came out fine.

[applecrisp]

Thanks Vabelle. I ended up using the frozen onions and sauteeing them a bit before adding to the recipe (although not called for). The meatloaf is in the oven. Loved the convenience since I hate chopping onions especially for only 1/4 cup.

[vabelle35]

Yes, they are very convenient. If that's the only thing I have to chop, it makes it easier than having to clean a knife and the cutting board.

[PAMMELA]

I use my chopper to chop onions to keep in the refrigerator/freezer. Beats chopping onions for each recipe, that's for sure!

[vabelle35]

I need to use my chopper more. It's sitting out but I never think to use it.

[Trishinomaha]

I use my chopper to chop onions to keep in the refrigerator/freezer. Beats chopping onions for each recipe, that's for sure!

What kind of chopper do you have and like? With cooler weather coming on I suspect we'll be making more dishes that call for chopped onion (like chili, meatloaf, etc.). I'd love some recommendations!

[applecrisp]

Trish,

I also have an onion chopper. It works fine but i definitely have more luck with the larger plate (comes with two choices for dice size). I've used it for other veggies too. It is easier to use if the slices aren't too thick,otherwise need pretty decent arm strength to push it down.

I think I got it in a holiday grab bag. It's called something like Vidalia onion chopper.

I use it since I have a terrible time with tearing when cutting onions, so helps a bit.

Here's a pic.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41UOMum72sL._SL500_AA280_.jpg

[Gilgamesh37]

That's the same one I have--and my Dad bought it for me specifically because I tear up so much when chopping onions. (One christmas he came into the kitchen just after I'd finished a big batch. There I am, tears just pouring down my face. Oh my God, what's happened!??!?! exclaims my father. Apparently it made quite the impression on him. :p ) Anyway, we love it--I don't have any trouble with the small plate really, although cleaning it is a bit more of a pain. DH loves using it for peppers and celery (like when you're making mire poix) as well.

[applecrisp]

Gilgamesh,

No laughing, but I've been tempted by those Onion Goggles. Have you seen them before? I've tried every no-tear onion trick in the book, and nothing really helps. Hey, even Vidalias make my eyes burn. In fact, I was in a cooking class, sitting at least a couple of rows back and my eyes were burning from the onions.

Do you use the small plate for onions too? I've tried it and it was a bit of a mess. Perhaps my slices were too thick.

Thanks,

[PAMMELA]

What I use actually looks like a mini food processor, we bought it at the state fair a few years ago. You crank it by hand. It's great, it was the best thing i've bought at the fair so far!

[Trishinomaha]

Thanks for the ideas on the onion choppers. I think I definitly have to have one. I'm going to go look on Amazon now - although DH is a great sous chef and does a pretty good job chopping those onions