These bright and tangy pickled onions are super easy to make! With just a few ingredients like vinegar, sugar, and salt, they add a tasty kick to any dish.
I love popping these on tacos or salads! They give everything a little zing. Plus, they’re quick to prepare, so you can have some ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Onion: This is the star of the recipe. Red onions have a mild sweetness that works perfectly for pickling. If you’re looking for alternatives, white onions or shallots could work, but they might change the flavor a bit.
Vinegar: White vinegar is a classic choice, but apple cider vinegar adds a sweeter note. If you’re feeling adventurous, try rice vinegar for a gentler, sweeter flavor!
Sugar: Sugar balances the tanginess. If you want a healthier option, you can use honey or agave nectar instead. Adjust the amount to your taste, especially if you like your pickles on the sweeter side.
Optional Flavorings: The garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaf are great for extra depth. You can easily switch these for other herbs or spices you enjoy, like dill or crushed red pepper for heat!
How Do You Get the Perfect Crunch in Pickled Onions?
The key to crunchy pickled onions lies in proper slicing and brining. When you slice the onions thinly, they absorb the pickling liquid quickly. Aim for uniform slices to ensure even pickling.
- Use a sharp knife or mandoline for even slices.
- Don’t skip the cooling time; letting them sit in the brine allows the flavors to meld. Refrigeration helps maintain their crispness.
- If you want extra crunch, soak the sliced onions in cold water for about 30 minutes before pickling. This helps mellow the flavor as well!
Enjoy this easy recipe for your meals, and have fun experimenting with different flavors to find your favorite blend!
How to Make Bobby Flay’s Pickled Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large red onion
- 1 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- Optional: 1 garlic clove, smashed
- Optional: 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- Optional: 1 bay leaf
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and requires at least 1 hour for the onions to chill in the refrigerator. Overall, you can have your pickled onions ready to enjoy in about 1 hour and 10 minutes, or let them sit longer for even better flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
Start by peeling the red onion. Next, slice it thinly into rings or half-rings, depending on your preference. Aim for even slices to ensure they pickle uniformly.
2. Make the Pickling Brine:
In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and kosher salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar and salt have completely dissolved. This will create your tasty pickling brine.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Take a heat-proof jar or bowl and place the sliced onions inside. If you want to add more flavor, toss in the smashed garlic, black peppercorns, and bay leaf. These extras create a delightful depth of flavor!
4. Pour the Brine:
Carefully pour the hot vinegar mixture over the sliced onions, making sure they are fully submerged in the liquid. This soaking process helps the onions absorb all those tangy flavors.
5. Cool and Refrigerate:
Let the mixture cool to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, cover the jar or bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the onions to chill for at least 1 hour before serving. The longer they sit, the better they taste, and they can last up to 2 weeks in the fridge—if they’re not eaten first!
Enjoy your tangy, crunchy pickled onions as a perfect topping for tacos, sandwiches, salads, or grilled meats! They’re sure to add a delightful zing to any dish.
Can I Use Different Types of Onions for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While red onions are preferred for their sweetness and vibrant color, you can use white or yellow onions as well. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be a bit different, and the color won’t be as vibrant.
How Long Do Pickled Onions Last in the Fridge?
Pickled onions can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container. They are best enjoyed within the first week for optimal crunch and flavor!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness in the Pickling Brine?
Yes, you can definitely adjust the sugar according to your taste! Feel free to add more or less sugar, or even replace it with honey or agave for a different sweetness profile. Just note that this might slightly alter the pickling process.
How Do I Make the Onions Less Pungent?
If you find the taste of raw onions too strong, you can soak the sliced onions in cold water for about 30 minutes before pickling. This step helps mellow out their flavor while keeping them crunchy!
