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Pickled Red Onions

Pickled Red Onions Recipe: Sweet and Tangy Flavor

  • Author: Emma Emma
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: About 1 cup of pickled onions 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

Pickled red onions are a simple, tangy, and slightly sweet condiment that enhances a variety of dishes, from tacos and sandwiches to salads and grain bowls. This quick-pickling method takes just a few minutes and requires minimal ingredients, making it an easy way to add a burst of flavor and color to your meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup hot water
  • 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt

Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor:

  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)
  • 5–6 whole peppercorns (for a subtle spice)
  • 1–2 sprigs fresh thyme (for herbal notes)
  • 1 bay leaf (for earthy depth)

Instructions

  1. Slice the onions: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to thinly slice the red onion (about 1/8-inch thick). Set aside.
  2. Make the brine: In a heatproof bowl or jar, combine hot water, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and kosher salt. Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
  3. Add onions to the jar: Place the sliced onions into a clean glass jar. If using optional add-ins, add them now.
  4. Pour the brine: Carefully pour the hot brine over the onions, ensuring they are fully submerged. Use a spoon to press them down if needed.
  5. Let it rest: Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, let it sit for 24 hours.
  6. Enjoy! Use pickled red onions as a topping for tacos, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and more. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.

Notes

  • Quick Version: You can enjoy the pickled onions in just 30 minutes, but for deeper flavor, let them sit overnight.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight glass jar in the fridge for up to 2-3 weeks.
  • Customization: Adjust the sweetness or acidity by tweaking the sugar and vinegar ratios. Try experimenting with different spices like cinnamon sticks, star anise, or mustard seeds.
  • Serving Tip: Use a fork or tongs to remove onions from the brine to keep them crisp longer.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Condiment
  • Method: Quick Pickling
  • Cuisine: Global

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Per 2-tablespoon serving
  • Calories: 7 kcal
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 147mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0.1g
  • Protein: 0.1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Pickled red onions, quick pickling, easy pickled onions, pickling recipe, taco topping, sandwich garnish, condiment, homemade pickles, tangy onions, vinegar onions

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Find it online: https://www.kitchenfeast.net/pickled-red-onions-recipe/