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Pickled onions: a secret weapon
"Pickled onions are onions that have been preserved in vinegar and salt, often with spices added. They are typically served as a condiment or snack."
So much for the definition, but doesn't that make them sound incredibly boring?
When actually the contrary is the case: pickled onions make so many dishes even better by giving them an extra kick of freshness, flavour, sweetness, tanginess and crunch.
They are a staple in many households, and for good reason! Whether you're looking to add a pop of flavour to your sandwiches, tacos, salads or meats, pickled onions are the perfect addition.
My personal favourite is the combination of cheese and picked onions, as their aromatic juxtaposition manages to elevate the heaviness of the cheese and accentuate its creaminess at the same time.
Are pickled onions difficult to make?
Nothing could be further from the truth.
Making your own pickled onions is surprisingly easy, and the results are always better than store-bought varieties.
My recipe will take you no longer than ten minutes to prepare and execute, so whatever other dish you are preparing - your pickled onions will be ready and delicious by the time you are done with your main.
The secret to making delicious pickled onions is the ratio of water to vinegar to sweetness. You want to dilute the vinegar down about 1:1 with water, of course depending on what kind of vinegar you are using. As for sweetness, you can add anything from plain sugar to honey or syrup. Any other additional flavour is optional.
How to make pickled onions?
If you need your pickled onions to be ready and served in less than half an hour, be sure to slice the onions extra thin so they have enough time to soak through and absorb all the tangy deliciousness.
Should you not be in a hurry and just batch make them for later, you can cut the onions a bit thicker. And by the way, they can keep in the fridge for several weeks, so you might as well make a few jars while you are at it.
But enough of the talking - if you are ready to make my sweet and tangy pickled onions now, get your apron and I'll see you in the kitchen!
Don't forget to leave me a comment on how you liked your result and what you served it with.
Xoxo Rena
Quick & easy pickled onions
These super easy pickled onions will be prepared and ready to serve in no time. Store them in the fridge for up to four weeks to boost the taste of your sandwiches, salads and more. This recipe yields 2 mason jars.
Fact Sheet
Category: Side dish Cuisine: Dairy free Gluten free Low calorie Low carb Low fat Vegan Vegetarian Sides under 30 minutes under 1 hour Cooking Method: Preserving Diet: Gluten Free Low Calorie Low Carb Low Fat Low Lactose Vegan Vegetarian Preparation Time: 5 minutes Total Time: 5 minutes Servings: 2Ingredients
- 6 medium size red onions
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup distilled vinegar
- 1/3 cup cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup raspberry vinegar
- 2.5 TBSP honey
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp pink peppercorns
Instructions
- To consume immediately: slice onions 2-3mm thick
- To consume later: cut onions in 3-5mm thick slices and place in the mason jars
- Bring all other ingredients to a simmer for about 2 minutes (until honey and salt are dissolved), then pour over the onions into the jar.
- Leave uncovered until cooled, then put on the lids and place in the fridge.
