Mexican Pickled Red Onions Recipe
Mexican Pickled Red Onions are a vibrant and tangy addition to many dishes. Their bright color and zesty flavor can elevate everything from tacos to salads. This simple recipe allows you to make your own pickled onions at home, giving you a delicious condiment that you can use in various meals.
Why Make This Recipe
Making your own Mexican Pickled Red Onions is easy and rewarding. They add a pop of flavor and color to your meals, and you control the ingredients. This means you can customize the heat level by adjusting the type or amount of chile peppers you use. Plus, they are a great way to use up extra onions and have them ready to add freshness to your dishes.
How to Make Mexican Pickled Red Onions
Ingredients
- 1 small red onion (8 ounces, cut into 1/4" half-moon slices)
- 3 whole limes (juiced)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 whole jalapeños (serrano chilies or habanero hot peppers)
Directions
- Slice the red onion into 1/4" thin half-moon strips using a chef’s knife.
- Juice all 3 limes.
- In a small pan, bring to a boil the water, white vinegar, sea salt, oregano, and bay leaves. Turn off the heat.
- Add the sliced onions and lime juice to the pan and let cool.
- Once the onions are cool, transfer them to a jar or container along with the pickling liquid. Add 1-2 chiles; you can slice them if you wish.
- Clamp the jar closed or place the lid on and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks.
- You can start enjoying your onions after 30 minutes, but the flavor improves if you wait overnight.
How to Serve Mexican Pickled Red Onions
Mexican Pickled Red Onions are perfect for topping tacos, burritos, or nachos. You can also add them to salads, sandwiches, or grilled meats. Their tangy crunch adds a delightful contrast to rich or savory dishes.
How to Store Mexican Pickled Red Onions
Store the pickled onions in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 4 weeks, but their flavor will become even better as they sit in the brine.
Tips to Make Mexican Pickled Red Onions
- For a milder flavor, add fewer chilies or remove the seeds from the peppers.
- Experiment with different herbs or spices for unique flavors, such as adding garlic or cumin.
- Make a larger batch to keep on hand for quick meals and snacks.
Variation
You can try using different types of onions, such as yellow or white onions, for a different flavor. Additionally, you can change the vinegar to apple cider vinegar for a different taste.
FAQs
1. How long do pickled red onions last in the fridge?
Pickled red onions can last for up to 4 weeks in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.
2. Can I eat the onions right away?
Yes, you can eat the onions after 30 minutes of cooling, but they’ll taste better if you let them sit overnight for the flavors to develop.
3. Can I use other types of vinegar for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or rice vinegar, to taste different variations of pickled onions.
