Onion, a member of the allium family, is related to leeks, shallots, chives and garlic. Onion is universally used in savory dishes and is a regular in most recipes and spice blends. Granulated onion is a coarse grind of a dehydrated onion and can be used to replace fresh onions in dishes.Use 1 tablespoon granulated onion to replace 1 medium onion chopped in recipes.