Description
Pickled red onions are a vibrant, tangy condiment made by pickling thinly sliced red onions in vinegar with sugar, salt, and optional flavorings like garlic, peppercorns, or chili for added depth. Perfect for tacos, sandwiches, salads, or as a homemade topping that elevates any dish. Easily paired with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or charcuterie boards.
Ingredients
For the Pickled Onions:
– 1 medium red onion (about 5 ounces), peeled and thinly sliced into ¼-inch moons
– ½ tsp granulated sugar (substitute stevia or monk fruit for low-sugar diets)
– ½ tsp kosher salt (adjust to taste; substitute low-sodium options if needed)
– ¾ cup vinegar (rice vinegar, white vinegar, or apple cider vinegar)
Optional Flavorings:
– 1 small garlic clove, halved
– 5 black peppercorns
– 5 allspice berries
– 3 small thyme sprigs
– 1 small dried chili
Instructions
- In the container you will use to store the onions, combine granulated sugar, kosher salt, vinegar, and optional flavorings. Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve.
- Place thinly sliced red onions in a sieve over the sink. Slowly pour boiling water over the onions to soften them slightly, then let them drain.
- Add the blanched onions to the jar with the brine. Gently stir to evenly distribute the flavorings.
- Let the onions sit for at least 30 minutes before using, though they are better after a few hours.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
– Use fresh, high-quality vinegar for maximum flavor. Substitute plant-based ingredients for vegan diets.
– Always use clean utensils when serving from the jar to avoid contamination. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Condiment / Side Dish
- Method: Pickling
- Cuisine: American / Global
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: ~10
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg