Quick-Pickled Onions (In 10 Minutes)
Add a splash of color and a tangy taste to your meals with quick-pickled onions! These vibrant, crisp onions are pickled in a flavorful brine of white vinegar, cane sugar, garlic, and spices.
Equipment
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Medium saucepan
- Mason jar
Ingredients
- 1 large red onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 ½ tablespoons cane sugar
- 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns
Additional seasonings optional
- 1-2 teaspoons Mexican oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-2 whole cloves
- A few Jalapeño slices
- A pinch of whole cumin seeds
- A pinch of whole coriander seeds
Instructions
- Peel the onion, then cut it in half, and thinly slice it. Peel and crush the garlic (this will help release the flavor). Set both aside.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water, vinegar, salt, and sugar to a gentle boil. Mix in the onion slices, garlic cloves, and whole peppercorns.
- Turn off the heat and let the saucepan sit covered for 10 minutes. Then, add the onions to a mason jar and pour the pickling liquid over top. Lightly tap the jar down on your counter to remove any air bubbles.
- Let the jar sit for another 20 minutes, then serve your quick-pickled onions immediately or transfer them to your fridge for storage. Happy eating!
Video
Notes
- Thinly slice the onions: Making thin slices will result in quicker pickling and a better final texture.
- Don’t rush the process: Allow the pickled onions enough time to soak up the flavors for the best infusion of flavors.
- Keep them submerged: Ensure all the onions are fully covered in the pickling liquid so they properly pickle.
- Jar size: Use a jar that's just the right size to pack the onions in. If it’s too large, they may not stay submerged.
- Adjust to taste: Feel free to adjust the sugar and salt based on your liking. Some people prefer no sugar, so experiment with it to see what you like best.
- Use clean jars: Always use clean, sterilized jars to prevent any bacterial growth. Wash them in boiling hot soapy water or the dishwasher beforehand.
- Tap to remove bubbles: Tapping the jar on the counter ensures all the onions are submerged and there are no air pockets left.
- Nutritional information is a rough estimate and should not be taken as health advice.
Nutrition
Serving: 1jar | Calories: 179kcal | Carbohydrates: 33.2g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 0mg | Sodium: 4674.4mg | Potassium: 249.6mg | Fiber: 3.1g | Sugar: 22.8g | Vitamin A: 26.8IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 81.1mg | Iron: 0.9mg
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