Let me tell you about the time I decided to jazz up my kitchen routine with something bold, something zesty, and slightly sweet – balsamic pickled red onions.
These little slices of heaven are not just a condiment; they’re a declaration of flavor that can make even the most mundane dishes sing opera in your mouth.
With balsamic vinegar in hand, I turned ordinary onions into gourmet gold.
This wasn’t just pickling; it was a flavor adventure, where balsamic’s richness meets onion in a delicious explosion.
Ready for some kitchen excitement? Let’s bring some pizzazz to our plates, one jar of balsamic pickled onions at a time!
Balsamic Pickled Red Onions
Equipment
- 1 16oz pickling jar
- 1 Small Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 large red onion
- 6 ounces balsamic vinegar
- 6 ounces water
- 1 tbsp sea salt It's best not to use table salt since it has iodine and anti-caking additives, which can cause the pickling liquid to turn cloudy and change the color of what you're pickling.
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or sugar For a low-carb or keto option, try using monk fruit or other type of sweeteners.
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- Optional- 1/2 tsp of fennel seeds
- Optional- 1 tsp of mustard seeds
- Optional- 1 tsp of red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the red onion: Peel and thinly slice the red onion. Separate the layers
- Prep your pickling jar: In a sanitized jar, layer in the sliced onions and your choice of additional seasonings.
- Making the brine: In a small saucepan, combine the balsamic vinegar, water, maple syrup/sugar, salt, oregano, peppercorns, fennel seeds, and mustard seeds if using. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat. stirring until the salt and sugar are dissolved.
- Pouring the brine: Place the onion slices in a jar. Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the onions
- Cool to room temperature: Allow to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Tasty treat: For the best results, allow 24 hours before serving. Your balsamic pickled red onions should last up to 2 weeks if refrigerated properly.
Nutrition
Balsamic Pickled Red Onions Are The Ultimate Meal Wingman
Think of balsamic pickled red onions as that friend who makes every social gathering better.
They’re here to lift up your meals from “meh” to “wow” with just a spoonful. Ready to taste them in action? Here we go:
- Cheeseburgers: Forget about ketchup and mustard. Top your burger with these onions, and you’ll never look back. It’s like giving your burger a first-class ticket to Flavortown.
- Salads: Toss them into a green salad, and watch it go from zero to hero. These onions turn “sad salad” hours into “happy dance” moments.
- Grilled Cheese: Add them between the slices before grilling. Congratulations, you’ve just entered the gourmet zone.
- Pizza: Scatter them on top before baking or after for a gourmet twist. It’s like having a fancy Italian chef in your kitchen, minus the white hat.
- Tacos: Spoon them onto chicken or fish tacos for a burst of flavor. It’s a party in your mouth, and everyone’s invited.
- Steak: Serve them on the side of a juicy steak. It’s like a flavor handshake between two old friends.
- Avocado Toast: Crown your avocado toast with these onions for a breakfast of champions. It’s the kind of upgrade that makes your morning alarm worth it.
- Charcuterie Boards: Let them mingle with cheeses and meats. They’re the life of the board party, telling all the best flavor jokes.
In search of a recipe that balances sugar and spice just right? Our sweet and spicy onions might just hit the spot!
Optional Add-In Spices
Assembling the right spice crew for balsamic pickled red onions is like forming a band where every member brings their own unique vibe.
Let’s meet the lineup that turns our onions into rock stars:
- Black Peppercorns: The drummer of the group, laying down the beat with a sharp, earthy rhythm that keeps everything grounded and spicy.
- Mustard Seeds: These little guys are the bass players, adding depth and a tangy backbeat that vibes perfectly with the balsamic’s smooth tunes.
- Coriander Seeds: The keyboardist of the ensemble, offering a citrusy, floral harmony that elevates the melody of our pickled onions.
- Allspice Berries: This spice is the mysterious guitarist, adding warm, nuanced riffs of sweetness and spice that make the whole song come alive.
- Bay Leaves: The stoic backup singers, infusing our mix with whispers of herbal notes that support the lead flavors without stealing the spotlight.
- Cinnamon Sticks: Think of them as the special guest artist, bringing a sweet and warm presence that surprises and delights in every bite.
- Clove Buds: The pyrotechnics of the show, a small but mighty explosion of aromatic sweetness that dazzles the crowd.
Together, this flavor squad harmonizes with the rich, complex notes of balsamic vinegar, creating a pickled onion performance that’s sure to get a standing ovation on any plate.
Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment with Spices and Vinegars
Embrace the world of spices and vinegars. They let you customize your pickles just how you like them.
Be bold in your kitchen adventures. Mix, match, and throw in your own flair. It’s your unique twist that makes pickling special.
Pickling’s true magic? It’s in crafting a recipe that’s all yours.
Vinegars play a big role too. From sharp white vinegar to sweet apple cider, each choice transforms your onions.
Every vinegar brings its own flavor. It invites you to explore and get creative.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION AND OUR COMMUNITY
I’m eager to hear all about your adventures with this recipe!
Drop a comment below and share your stories, tips, or your favorite dishes to pair with these zesty delights.
And hey, if you’re as passionate about pickling as I am, why not join our newsletter community? It’s a space where we share recipes, tips, and all sorts of pickling ideas!
A Flavorful Farewell
In my journey of exploring the art of pickling, I’ve realized that the possibilities of taste are truly boundless, and these balsamic pickled red onions perfectly encapsulate this discovery.
Each onion is an explosion of savory sweetness, showcasing that these pickled bites have the power to elevate any meal to extraordinary.
So, if you’re on a quest to bring a unique and unforgettable flavor to your dishes, look no further—these pickled onions are the secret ingredient you’ve been searching for!
Your Questions Answered
I’m here to support you every step of the way on your pickling journey. I’ve compiled answers to some of the frequent questions I’ve encountered to ensure your pickling experience is seamless and enjoyable:
When you pickle with red onions, you get a mild and slightly sweet flavor accompanied by a stunning vibrant color.
On the flip side, white onions offer a sharper, more pungent taste, creating a bolder pickling experience.
Can I Use Yellow Onions for Pickling Recipes
Absolutely, you can use yellow onions for pickling! They bring a perfect balance of sweetness and astringency to the table, ensuring a delightful pickle that’s both flavorful and aromatic.
What Are Some Other Types of Vinegar that Can Be Used for Pickling Onions
Beyond the classic balsamic, feel free to experiment with apple cider vinegar for a fruity twist, or white wine vinegar for a light and elegant flavor.
Red wine vinegar also makes a great choice, adding depth and a robust tang to your pickled onions.
