Introduction
Pickled red onions are a delicious and versatile condiment that can elevate any dish. Their vibrant color and tangy flavor make them a perfect addition to salads, tacos, sandwiches, and more. This quick pickling recipe allows you to enjoy the crispness of onions with a delightful taste, ready in just a short amount of time.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
– ¾ cup water
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
Optional Seasonings:
– 1 clove garlic, smashed
– 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
– ½ teaspoon coriander seeds
– 2-3 sprigs fresh herbs (such as thyme or dill)
– 1-2 strips citrus zest (such as lemon or orange)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: About 1 cup of pickled red onions
Enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe for pickled red onions. They not only add zest to your meals but also provide a beautiful pop of color on your plate.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Blanch the Onions
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the thinly sliced red onion to the boiling water and blanch for about 30 seconds. This process will help soften the onions and enhance their color. After 30 seconds, drain the onions and transfer them to a heatproof jar.
Step 2: Prepare the Pickling Liquid
In a saucepan, combine ¾ cup of apple cider vinegar, ¾ cup of water, 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar, and 1½ teaspoons of kosher salt. If you are using any optional seasonings such as a clove of smashed garlic, whole black peppercorns, coriander seeds, fresh herbs, or citrus zest, add them to the mixture as well. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring continuously to ensure the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
Step 3: Combine Onions and Pickling Liquid
Once the vinegar mixture reaches a boil, carefully pour it over the blanched onions in the heatproof jar. Ensure that the onions are fully submerged in the liquid to facilitate even pickling.
Step 4: Cool and Refrigerate
Allow the jar to cool to room temperature. After it has cooled, seal the jar tightly and place it in the refrigerator. The pickled onions will be ready to use after 30 minutes of pickling but will continue to develop more flavor the longer they are left to marinate.
Notes
Storage Recommendations
Store the pickled onions in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to 2 weeks.
Flavor Enhancement
For additional depth of flavor, consider experimenting with different herbs and spices in the pickling liquid. The optional ingredients can be tailored to your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Pickled onions are a versatile condiment that can be used to top sandwiches, tacos, or salads, adding a tangy crunch to a variety of dishes.
Cook techniques
Blanching
Blanching the sliced onions in boiling water for about 30 seconds helps to soften their harshness and brightens their color. This quick cook technique prepares them for better absorption of flavors during pickling.
Pickling
The process of pickling involves submerging vegetables in a solution of vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. This not only preserves the onions but also infuses them with the flavors of the added seasonings, resulting in a tangy and flavorful condiment.
Cooling and Refrigeration
Allowing the pickled onions to cool to room temperature before sealing and refrigerating enhances the pickling process. Storing in the fridge helps to develop deeper flavors over time.
FAQ
How long do pickled onions last in the refrigerator?
Pickled onions can last for several weeks in the refrigerator, typically up to 2-4 weeks if properly sealed in a jar.
Can I use other types of vinegar?
Yes, you can use different types of vinegar, such as white vinegar or red wine vinegar, although this may alter the flavor profile of the pickled onions.
What can I do with pickled onions?
Pickled onions can be used as a topping for salads, tacos, sandwiches, and burgers, or enjoyed straight out of the jar as a flavorful snack.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the pickling solution?
Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of sugar to taste based on how sweet or tangy you prefer your pickled onions to be.
What are some other seasoning options I can add?
Feel free to experiment with different spices such as mustard seeds, red pepper flakes, or additional herbs to create a unique flavor profile for your pickled onions.
Conclusion
Pickled red onions are a versatile addition to a variety of dishes, adding a tangy crunch and vibrant color. Their quick preparation and the ability to customize flavors make them a must-try for enhancing salads, sandwiches, and more.
Pair with Tacos
Add pickled red onions to your favorite tacos for a zesty contrast to savory meats and fresh toppings.
Top Salads
Incorporate pickled red onions into salads to elevate them with a burst of flavor, particularly with leafy greens and creamy dressings.
Sandwich Enhancements
Use pickled red onions in sandwiches and wraps, where their acidity can complement heavier ingredients like meats and cheeses.
Serve with Grilled Meats
Serve pickled red onions alongside grilled meats, such as chicken or beef, to balance the richness of the dish.
Garnish for Avocado Toast
Top avocado toast with pickled red onions for an added zing and visual appeal.
Mix into Rice or Grain Bowls
Incorporate them into rice or grain bowls, adding a pleasant contrast to the comforting base of the dish.
