Quick 10-Minute Pickled Red Onions are a versatile and mouthwatering condiment that adds a burst of tangy flavor to a wide variety of dishes. Whether you’re a fan of their zesty crunch on a burger or love how they transform a simple salad into a taste sensation, pickled onions are a culinary delight worth exploring.
Have you ever had pickled onions at your favorite local restaurant and wanted to duplicate the same results at home? Look no further because today I’m going to show you how quick and easy these delicious pickled onions are to make (just 10 minutes!)
Pickled onions are a delightful addition to any culinary repertoire. Their tangy flavor and crisp texture enhance a wide range of dishes, bringing a burst of brightness and complexity. With a simple homemade recipe, you can create your own batch of pickled onions, customized to your taste preferences. So, get ready to elevate your meals with these flavorful gems and explore the endless possibilities they offer!
Why Pickled Onions?
- Flavorful Complexity: Pickled onions possess a unique combination of tartness and sweetness that elevates the taste profile of any dish they accompany. The pickling process enhances their natural onion flavors, resulting in a delightful blend of tang and crunch.
- Versatile Culinary Companion: Pickled onions pair beautifully with a wide range of dishes. From burgers, sandwiches, and tacos to salads, cheese boards, and charcuterie platters, they bring a zingy brightness that cuts through richer flavors and adds depth to lighter fare.
- Easy to Prepare: Making pickled onions is a simple and rewarding DIY project. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a jar of these flavorful delights to enjoy for weeks.
How to Make Pickled Onions
To make these delicious pickled onions you will first need to slice your onions super thin. I like to do this safely by using a mandoline slicer but this can also be done by using a knife.
Next, place the onions into mason jars. This recipe will make enough brine and onions to fill exactly one 16 oz mason jar.
To make the pickle mixture, simply combine water, vinegar, sugar & salt in a small saucepan and simmer. Next, pour the mixture on top of your pickled onions and you are done.
It really is that easy! You can begin eating them as soon as they cool or place them in the fridge to cool. The flavor will develop each day.
Are these canned Pickled Onions?
Not to be confused with canned pickles, these quick pickled onions also known as refrigerator pickles or fresh pickles, are a faster and easier method of making pickled onions and do not require canning. They are ready to eat in a shorter timeframe compared to canned pickles, which require processing time and cooling before they can be consumed. So no need to sterilize the jars and lids or seal them off.
How to Store Pickled Onions
Storing pickled red onions properly will help maintain their flavor and texture over time. Here are some guidelines for storing pickled red onions:
- Refrigeration: Pickled red onions should be stored in the refrigerator. Transfer the pickled onions to a clean, airtight jar or container before refrigerating them. Ensure that the onions are fully submerged in the pickling liquid to prevent oxidation. They are typically best when consumed within 3 to 4 weeks of pickling.
- Use Proper Containers: Glass jars with tight-fitting lids are ideal for storing pickled onions. The glass containers help preserve the flavor and prevent any unwanted odors from transferring to the onions.
- Submersion: It’s crucial to keep the pickled red onions fully submerged in the pickling liquid. This helps maintain their flavor and prevents spoilage. If the onions are not completely covered, you can add additional pickling liquid to the jar to ensure they stay submerged.
Quick 10 Minute Pickled Red Onions
Ingredients
- 2 medium red onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons cane sugar
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Slice the onion into thin slices using a mandoline or sharp knife. Place in a 16 oz mason jar. Add smashed garlic, jalapeno, or peppercorns into the jar if desired.
- Heat the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a small pot just until the sugar and salt have melted and the mixture begins to simmer. Pour the mixture onto the onions and allow to cool for 25-30 minutes. Serve immediately, or refrigerate the onions in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.
I am looking forward to making this recipe, but I notice it calls for Prep Time and Cook Time of 5 hrs. This must be a misprint.
This is my mom’s simple and delicious quick pickled onions recipe. We make just the red onion and another as a side of red onion and scrubbed and thinly sliced cucumber. I love it several days later, too. So many uses and especially good with more unctuous and savory meats like a slow roasted pork shoulder. Delicious!