How to Make Pickled Onions?
Imagine finding an extra easy and quick topping that can enhance a ton of different meals and recipes. Look no further—let me introduce you to pickled onions.
This is one of the simplest recipes I know, and one of those basics that makes life easier in the kitchen. Have you made a rather bland dish? Perhaps pickled onions are the solution.
Let’s get started with the recipe and some ideas on how to use pickled onions!
Table of Contents
Tips and Tricks for Making a Perfect Pickled Onion
- Use white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar: they give a mild and balanced flavor.
- If you want a more intense flavor, let it sit for 24 hours before using it.
- You can add spices such as peppercorns, bay leaves, or mustard seeds for a different touch.
- Always use clean, dry jars so that the pickle lasts longer.
How to Make Pickled Onions?
Pickled red onions in a vinegar and spice solution. It’s an economical and very versatile condiment in the kitchen.
Recipe Information:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 2 minutes
- Quantity: 1 jar
- Keywords: Pickled onions
- Category: Side dishes
- Cuisine: International
- Author: Fatima
Ingredients (Table)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Red onion (sliced lengthwise into julienne strips) | 1 | You can also cut into rings |
| Water | 1 cup | For the brine |
| White vinegar | 3/4 cup | Or use another vinegar (see tips) |
| Sugar | 1/2 teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Bay leaves | 2 | Optional but tasty |
| Garlic cloves | 2 | Crushed |
| Black peppercorns | To taste | See notes |
Preparation
- Cut the onions: Clean and julienne the onions lengthwise (you can also cut them into rings). Place them in a glass container with a lid.
- Make the brine: In a pot, heat the water, vinegar, salt, and sugar until dissolved; it does not need to boil.
- Make the pickle: Pour the brine into the container with the onions until they are completely covered. Add the bay leaves, peppercorns, and crushed garlic (or any other spices you’re using).
- If you need more liquid, heat equal parts water and vinegar and add it to the container.
- Resting and storage: Cover the container, turn it upside down to let it rest and cool to room temperature (this helps create an airtight seal and extend shelf life). Store in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, before using. Serve in your favorite dishes as desired. Enjoy!
Video Guide 📺
Notes (Grades)
- You can use other herbs and spices such as chopped parsley, pepperoncino flakes or jalapeño for a spicy touch, plus thyme or cilantro.
- You can add more salt and sugar, up to 1 teaspoon of each per onion.
- They keep for quite a while in the refrigerator; do not reuse the brine once you have consumed the onions.
Nutritional Facts
Approximate values per 2 tablespoons (serving). Actual nutrition can vary depending on onion size and how much brine you use.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 10–20 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 2–4 g |
| Sugars | 1–2 g |
| Fiber | 0.3–0.8 g |
| Protein | 0.1–0.3 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 80–180 mg |
How to Eat and Serve This Pickled Onion
I’m going to give you 3 ideas for adding this topping. In all 3 cases, it will add a great extra touch of color, flavor, and texture:
- Salads: I love the crunchy texture it adds along with its characteristic tangy flavor. It will make your salads much less boring.
- Tacos: For many tacos, pickled onions are practically essential.
- Snacks: This might be the least typical idea, but you’ll be surprised how good it turns out.
If you like onions, I recommend you check out a recipe for Onion Rings, too. I’m sure you’ll love it!
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different vinegar?
Yes. White wine vinegar and apple cider vinegar are great for a mild, balanced flavor. If you use a stronger vinegar, expect a sharper bite.
How long do pickled onions need before they’re ready?
They’re good after about 4 hours in the fridge, but if you can wait, overnight gives you a deeper flavor.
Do I have to use sugar?
A little sugar helps round out the acidity, but you can reduce it. If you like a more tangy punch, keep it lower.
How long do they last in the fridge?
They keep quite well for a while when stored cold in a clean jar. Just don’t reuse the brine once the onions are gone.
Can I make them spicy?
Absolutely. Add jalapeño, pepperoncino flakes, or even a pinch of mustard seeds for a stronger kick.
Conclusion
If you want a quick kitchen shortcut that instantly boosts meals, pickled onions are hard to beat.
They’re fast, affordable, and they bring that perfect mix of tangy flavor and crunch to everything from salads to tacos.
Make one jar, keep it in the fridge, and you’ll start finding excuses to add them to just about anything. Enjoy!
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