Pickled Red Onions

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pickled red onions are the perfect balance of sweet and tangy with just the right amount of crunch. They’re incredibly versatile and can elevate a variety of dishes, from tacos to sandwiches to salads. The best part? They’re super easy to make and only require a short amount of active prep time. After chilling for 24 hours, the flavors develop into a deliciously vibrant topping!

Ingredients

• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• ¾ cup water
• ⅔ cup apple cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Slice the Onion

Very thinly slice the red onion. If you have a mandolin, it can help make the slicing easier and more uniform.

Step 2: Optional Rinse

If your onion is very strong, you can place the slices in a strainer and rinse them under hot water for 1 minute. Toss the onions as you rinse to help reduce their sharpness.

Step 3: Boil the Pickling Liquid

In a small saucepan, combine the water, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar and salt.

Step 4: Add the Onion

Add the thinly sliced onions to the boiling liquid and cook for 1 minute. Remove the pan from the heat and cover it with a lid. Let it sit for about 20 minutes, allowing the onions to soften and absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Refrigerate

Place the onions and the pickling liquid into jars or containers. Let them cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Allow the onions to chill for at least 24 hours before serving. They will keep in the fridge for up to 1 month.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2 cups
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 day
• Total Time: 1 day 35 minutes

Storage

Store your pickled onions in a jar in the fridge for up to 1 month. Be sure to keep them sealed to maintain their freshness.

Fun Tips and Variations

• Use a variety of vinegar: While apple cider vinegar is the traditional choice, rice vinegar, or even balsamic for a different flavor profile.
• Make a dressing: After the pickled onions are gone, use the leftover pickling liquid as a zippy base for a salad dressing! Just add olive oil, whisk, and you’ve got a tangy vinaigrette.
• Add spices: For an extra flavor kick, you can add a few peppercorns, a garlic clove, or even a cinnamon stick to the pickling liquid.

FAQs

1. Can I make these pickled onions with a red onion substitute?

While red onions are traditionally used for pickling, you can substitute with yellow or white onions. Red onions do add a vibrant color, but other onions will still work well.

2. How long do pickled onions last?

Pickled onions can last for up to 1 month when stored in the refrigerator in an airtight jar.

3. Can I use table salt instead of kosher salt?

Kosher salt is recommended for this recipe because of its larger grains. If you use table salt, reduce the amount, as it’s much finer and will make the onions too salty.

4. How do I reduce the sharpness of the onions?

If you find red onions too sharp, you can rinse them with hot water before pickling, or soak them in ice water for 10 minutes before adding them to the pickling liquid.

5. Can I use other fruits or vegetables for pickling?

Yes! You can try pickling other veggies like cucumbers, carrots, or even fruits like pears and apples. The process is very similar to that of the onions.

6. Can I add sweetness to the pickling liquid?

If you prefer a sweeter pickled onion, you can adjust the sugar level to your taste, adding more sugar if needed.

7. Can I use a non-sugar substitute for the sweetener?

Yes, if you’re looking for a sugar-free option, you can substitute granulated sugar with a sweetener like stevia or monk fruit. Keep in mind, this might alter the flavor slightly.

8. Can I use fresh herbs or spices in the pickling liquid?

Yes! You can add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or spices like mustard seeds or red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor.

Conclusion

Pickled Red Onions are a simple, delicious addition to your culinary repertoire. They bring a perfect balance of flavor to many dishes, and they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a tangy, crunchy topping that’s ideal for tacos, burritos, sandwiches, or even just as a snack. Enjoy the vibrant taste of homemade pickled onions today!

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