Ingredients:
- 1 large red onion (or 2 medium)
- 1 cup distilled white vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
Optional additions:
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- A few sprigs of fresh herbs (thyme, dill, rosemary)
Equipment:
- Mason jar or similar heatproof container (about 1 pint/500ml size)
- Mandoline slicer (optional, for very thin slices)
- Small saucepan
Instructions:
- Prep the onion: Remove the ends and peel the onion. Thinly slice the onion into rings or half-moons. For the quickest pickling, use a mandoline for very thin slices.
- Make the brine: In a small saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve (about 1 minute). Remove from heat.
- Add optional flavorings: If using bay leaves, peppercorns, red pepper flakes, or any herbs, add them to the brine now.
- Pack the onions: Place the sliced onions into your clean mason jar or container.
- Pour the brine: Carefully pour the warm brine over the onions, making sure they are fully submerged. Use a spoon or butter knife to press down on any onions that tend to float.
- Cool and refrigerate: Allow the jar to cool to room temperature on the counter (about 30 minutes). Then, cover the jar tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Pickled onions will reach their peak flavor after about a day in the refrigerator.
- Enjoy and store: Pickled onions can be enjoyed immediately, and they’ll keep for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. The flavor and color will continue to intensify over time.
Tips:
- Onion choice: Red onions are the classic choice, but you can experiment with yellow or white onions as well.
- Customizing: Adjust the sweetness and spice level to your liking! Add a bit more sugar if you like them sweeter, or more red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Uses: Pickled onions are amazingly versatile. Use them as a topping for sandwiches, tacos, burgers, salads, or add them to charcuterie boards.
