Refrigerator Pickled Red Onions
Refrigerator Pickled Red Onions are a simple yet delicious way to add a zesty kick to your meals. These vibrant onions can brighten up salads, sandwiches, tacos, and more. Plus, they are easy to make and only take a few minutes to prepare.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Refrigerator Pickled Red Onions at home is a great choice for several reasons. First, it adds flavor to your dishes without much effort. Second, it’s a perfect way to use up any extra onions you might have. Lastly, these pickled onions are healthier and fresher than store-bought options and you can control the ingredients.
How to Make Refrigerator Pickled Red Onions
Making your own pickled red onions is straightforward. It involves cooking a quick brine, slicing the onions, and letting them soak. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have delicious pickled onions ready to enjoy in no time!
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups water
- ¾ cup white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 clove garlic (smashed)
- 6 whole black peppercorns
Directions:
- Make the brine by adding the water, vinegar, salt, and sugar to a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring once to dissolve.
- Allow the brine to cool for a few minutes.
- While the brine simmers, peel the red onion and slice it thinly. You can cut thin rings or cut the onion in half and slice into half moons.
- Add the onion slices to 1 or 2 pint jars.
- Add a few peppercorns to each jar and a smashed clove of garlic. You can smash the garlic clove and cut it in half if using two jars. Lay the side of the knife over the garlic clove and gently pound it with your fist to smash it. This helps remove the peel and release flavor into the onions.
- Use a ladle or measuring cup to pour the hot brine over the onions. Fill the jars almost to the top, using a spoon to press down the onions so they are fully submerged.
- Cool them on the counter for a bit, or put the lids on and refrigerate. After a few hours, they will turn bright pink. They can be eaten within an hour or stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
How to Serve Refrigerator Pickled Red Onions
Refrigerator Pickled Red Onions can elevate many dishes. Use them to top tacos, sandwiches, burgers, or salads. They add a refreshing crunch and a tangy taste that complements many flavors.
How to Store Refrigerator Pickled Red Onions
Store your pickled onions in the fridge in a sealed jar. They can last up to 2 weeks. Just make sure the onions are submerged in the brine to keep them fresh.
Tips to Make Refrigerator Pickled Red Onions
- Use fresh, firm onions for the best texture.
- Adjust the sugar and salt to your taste.
- If you want a spicier kick, add a few slices of jalapeño pepper to the jars.
Variation
You can try other types of vinegar, like apple cider vinegar, for a different flavor. Adding herbs like thyme or dill can also create a unique twist!
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of onions?
Yes, you can use yellow or white onions, but red onions give the best color and flavor for pickling.
2. How long do the pickled onions need to sit before eating?
You can eat them within an hour, but they taste best after a few hours in the fridge.
3. What can I do with leftover brine?
You can use leftover brine to pickle other veggies like carrots or cucumbers! Just add them to the jar and store them in the fridge.
