Pickled Red Onions
Pickled red onions are a delicious and easy way to elevate many dishes. These tangy and slightly sweet toppings can add a burst of flavor to tacos, burgers, salads, and more. With their vibrant color and crunchy texture, they not only taste great but also look beautiful on your plate.
Why Make This Recipe
Making pickled red onions at home is simple and rewarding. You can control the ingredients, adjust the sweetness and acidity to your taste, and enjoy the freshness of homemade pickles. Plus, they are great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them for weeks. This recipe is quick to make and requires minimal ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
How to Make Pickled Red Onions
Ingredients:
- 1 Medium Red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 clove garlic (peeled and smashed, optional)
- 3 Tablespoons Sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Table salt (not kosher)
- 1/2 teaspoon Whole peppercorns (optional)
- 1/2 Cup Apple cider vinegar (or white distilled vinegar)
- 1 Cup Water
Directions:
- Peel and thinly slice the red onion. Peel and smash the garlic clove if you are using it.
- Put all the ingredients in a pan and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, remove the pan from the heat, cover it, and let it come to room temperature.
- You can use the pickled onions immediately, but if you have time, let them sit in the refrigerator overnight. This will soften the onions and enhance the flavor.
- To store the pickled onions, keep them submerged in the liquid in a non-reactive container, like glass or plastic. Avoid aluminum containers.
- The pickled onions will last a couple of months. If you notice any mold or sludge, toss them out. However, in such an acidic environment, they should be fine in the refrigerator for up to 8 weeks.
How to Serve Pickled Red Onions
Pickled red onions are very versatile. You can serve them on top of various dishes such as tacos, sandwiches, salads, or grilled meats. They can also be a great addition to charcuterie boards or enjoyed as a snack on their own.
How to Store Pickled Red Onions
Store pickled red onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure they are completely submerged in the pickling liquid to maintain their crunch and flavor. They can be enjoyed for up to 8 weeks in the fridge.
Tips to Make Pickled Red Onions
- For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or dill to the pickling mixture.
- If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of sugar to your liking.
- Experiment with different types of vinegar for unique tastes.
Variation
Try adding slices of jalapeño or other peppers for a spicy kick. You can also use different types of onions, like yellow or white, to see how they change the flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of onion?
Yes, you can use other types of onions, but red onions give the best color and flavor for pickling.
2. How long do pickled onions last?
They can last up to 8 weeks in the refrigerator if stored properly.
3. Can I skip the sugar?
You can reduce or omit sugar if you prefer a less sweet flavor, but it helps balance the acidity of the vinegar.
