To store a whole peeled onion in the fridge without it drying out, you can follow these steps:
Choose a fresh onion: Select a firm and fresh onion with no signs of decay or mold. The quality of the onion at the time of purchase will affect its shelf life in the fridge.
Peel the onion carefully: Remove the outer papery skin and any dry or damaged layers. Try to keep as many of the moist inner layers intact as possible.
Wrap it tightly: Wrap the whole peeled onion tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The key is to create an airtight seal around the onion to retain its moisture.
Use an airtight container: Alternatively, you can place the whole peeled onion in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss.
Label the container: If you have multiple items in the fridge, it's helpful to label the container with the date so you can keep track of its freshness.
Store in the crisper drawer: Place the wrapped or containerized onion in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. This compartment has a higher humidity level, which helps maintain the onion's moisture.
Keep away from strong-smelling foods: Onions can absorb odors from other strong-smelling foods in the fridge, so try to keep them away from items like garlic, fish, or certain cheeses.
By following these steps, your whole peeled onion should stay fresh and moist in the refrigerator for a few days to a week, depending on its original freshness at the time of purchase. However, keep in mind that onions are perishable, and their quality will deteriorate over time even in optimal storage conditions. If you don't plan to use the onion within a few days, consider chopping or dicing it and freezing the portions in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen onions can be easily used in various recipes without the risk of drying out.