Pickled onions are a fantastic addition to tacos, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and so much more! Their tangy, slightly sweet, and crunchy texture adds a delightful zing to any dish. Making them at home is surprisingly easy and far more rewarding than buying pre-made versions. This guide will walk you through the simple steps to create your own delicious pickled onions.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced (red onions hold their color best, but white or yellow work too)
- 1 cup white vinegar (distilled or white wine vinegar)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar (granulated white sugar works best)
- 1 teaspoon salt (kosher or table salt)
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns, a few bay leaves, a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
Thinly slice your onion. The thinner the slices, the quicker they'll pickle. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for even slices. If you prefer less pungent onions, you can soak the sliced onions in cold water for about 15-20 minutes before pickling. This helps to remove some of the onion's sharpness.
2. Make the Brine:
In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Add any optional spices like peppercorns, bay leaves, or red pepper flakes at this stage.
3. Simmer the Brine:
Bring the brine to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved. Once it simmers, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Pickle the Onions:
Pack the sliced onions into a clean glass jar. Pour the cooled brine over the onions, ensuring they are fully submerged. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of the jar.
5. Refrigerate and Enjoy:
Seal the jar tightly with a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they become. They'll keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for the Perfect Pickled Onions:
- Experiment with flavors: Add a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or oregano, a few juniper berries, or a clove of garlic to customize the flavor profile.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet pickle, reduce the sugar to 2 tablespoons. For a sweeter pickle, increase it to 1/3 cup.
- Use different onions: Try yellow or white onions for a different flavor experience.
- Sterilize jars (optional): For longer shelf life, you can sterilize your jars before pickling. This is particularly useful if you are pickling larger batches or intend to store them for a longer time.
Serving Suggestions:
- Tacos & Burgers: Add a spoonful to your favorite taco or burger for a vibrant crunch and tang.
- Salads: Use them as a colorful and flavorful salad topping.
- Sandwiches: Elevate your sandwiches with the delightful crunch and zest of pickled onions.
- Charcuterie Boards: A beautiful and delicious addition to any charcuterie board.
Making pickled onions is a simple and rewarding process. With minimal effort, you can transform ordinary onions into a delicious and versatile condiment that will elevate your culinary creations. So grab your ingredients and start pickling!
