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Pickled Red Onions

Pickled Red Onions

  • Author: Marcus
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes refrigeration)
  • Yield: About 2 cups 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Pickled Red Onions are a quick and tangy condiment made with crunchy red onions and apple cider vinegar. This easy recipe balances sharpness and subtle sweetness, adding vibrant color and zest to salads, sandwiches, tacos, and more. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a versatile topping that stays fresh and flavorful for weeks.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 medium red onions, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (natural)
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Optional Spices and Additions

  • 2 garlic cloves, gently bruised
  • 1 teaspoon peppercorns
  • Natural gelling agent, a pinch (optional)
  • Sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spicy kick)
  • Fresh thyme, oregano, or bay leaves (optional herbal infusion)
  • Honey (natural) or maple syrup (natural) as sugar alternatives
  • Thin slices of apple or pear (optional for fruit-infused twist)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onions: Peel and thinly slice two medium red onions into half-moon shapes using a sharp knife or mandoline. Thin slices ensure the onions absorb the pickling flavors quickly and remain crisp.
  2. Make the Pickling Brine: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 cup water, 2 tablespoons sugar (natural), and 1 teaspoon salt. Warm over low heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve completely. Remove from heat once dissolved.
  3. Pack and Pour: Place the sliced onions into a clean jar or airtight container. Pour the warm pickling liquid over the onions, making sure they are fully submerged. Add optional garlic cloves and peppercorns if desired.
  4. Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the jar to cool to room temperature, then seal tightly. Refrigerate for at least one hour; flavors will improve after 24 hours. Your pickled red onions are ready to enjoy!

Notes

  • Use fresh, firm red onions for the best texture and sweetness.
  • Slice onions evenly and thinly for quicker pickling and consistent crunch.
  • Adjust sweetness by tasting the brine and adding more sugar (natural) if preferred.
  • Ensure onions are fully submerged in the brine to pickle evenly.
  • Gently bruise garlic cloves before adding to enhance aroma.
  • Pickled red onions can be stored sealed in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
  • Avoid freezing to preserve texture and color.
  • Serve chilled or at room temperature; avoid heating to maintain crunch and flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Pickling
  • Cuisine: International

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
  • Calories: 10
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 0 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 0 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: pickled red onions, quick pickles, tangy onions, easy condiment, apple cider vinegar pickles

Find it online: https://tastysoulkitchen.com/pickled-red-onions/