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Pickled Onions Recipe

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4 from 208 reviews

A quick and easy recipe for tangy and crisp pickled red onions, perfect for adding a zesty crunch to salads, sandwiches, and tacos. These pickled onions are ready in just 15 minutes and can be stored refrigerated for longer use.

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings

Ingredients

Pickling Brine

  • 2 cups white vinegar
  • 2 cups water
  • ⅓ cup cane sugar
  • 2 tablespoons sea salt

Vegetables & Optional Flavorings

  • 2 small red onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon mixed peppercorns (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onions: Thinly slice the red onions and distribute them evenly between 2 to 3 sterilized jars, ensuring the slices will fit comfortably.
  2. Make the Brine: In a saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, cane sugar, and sea salt. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
  3. Cool the Brine: Allow the brine to cool slightly until it is warm but not hot, to avoid wilting the onions excessively.
  4. Add Optional Flavorings: If using, place the garlic cloves and mixed peppercorns into the jars with the onions to infuse additional flavor.
  5. Pour the Brine: Pour the warm brine over the sliced onions in the jars, making sure the onions are fully submerged for best pickling results.
  6. Cool to Room Temperature: Leave the jars uncovered and allow them to cool to room temperature to prevent condensation.
  7. Seal and Refrigerate: Once cooled, seal the jars with lids tightly and refrigerate.
  8. Rest and Serve: The pickled onions are ready to eat after 1 hour but taste best after resting overnight to develop full flavor.

Notes

  • For a sharper onion flavor, use white or red wine vinegar instead of white vinegar.
  • Make sure jars and lids are sterilized to extend shelf life and avoid spoilage.
  • Pickled onions can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
  • Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an herbal twist.
  • Use on tacos, burgers, salads, or as a condiment for grilled meats.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Condiment
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan