Exploring the world of pickling has always been a hobby of mine, and coming across the recipe for Mexican pickled red onions was an unexpected yet delightful find!
What surprised me most was how simple they are to prepare, turning into a quick favorite for adding a vibrant Mexican touch to any meal.
For those of you who are either dipping your toes into pickling for the first time or are just looking for something new to try, I’m eager to share this easy-to-follow recipe.
It’s a straightforward way to bring a splash of color and flavor to your table, showcasing the beauty of pickling with minimal effort.
Easy Mexican Pickled Red Onions
Equipment
- 1 16oz pickling jar
- 1 Small Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 large red onion
- 6 ounces vinegar- Distilled, Apple Cider, or White Wine
- 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.
- 1/2 ounce lime juice (approx 1/2 of a lime)
- 1 tbsp sugar- For a low-carb or keto option, try using monk fruit or other type of sweeteners.
- Optional- 1/2 of a jalapeño cut into slices
- Optional- 1 tsp of red pepper flakes
- Optional- 1 Garlic Clove thinly sliced
- Optional- 1 tsp of Mexican oregano
Instructions
- Prepare the red onion: Begin by trimming the ends and then cut it in half. Remove the outer layer, and proceed to slice each half finely, pulling apart the individual 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, mix the vinegar, water, salt, and sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar are dissolved.
- Pouring the brine: Remove from the heat after the brine reaches a boil. Carefully transfer it into the jar. Be sure to leave enough room for the lime juice.
- Adding lime juice: Add lime juice and any other juice you like. Top off with more brine to ensure the onions are completely covered.
- Cool to room temperature: Set aside the jars and allow them to cool to room temperature-typically 2 hours. Once cooled, squeeze the limes into the jar, cover and put into the fridge.
- Tasty treat: For the best results, allow 24 hours before serving. Your Mexican pickled red onions should last up to 2 weeks if refrigerated properly.
Nutrition
Ideas for Integrating Mexican Pickled Red Onions into Your Dishes
The vibrant taste of pickled red onions can turn simple Mexican dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences. Here’s how I’ve used them to add a burst of flavor and color:
- Tacos: Nestled in tacos, pickled red onions provide a crisp, tangy contrast that enhances the rich flavors of the filling, making each bite unforgettable.
- Enchiladas: Sprinkle them on top of enchiladas before serving for a refreshing zing that cuts through the savory sauce and melted cheese.
- Ceviche: Adding pickled onions to ceviche brings an extra layer of acidity and sweetness, complementing the citrusy seafood perfectly.
- Quesadillas: A scattering of pickled onions inside or on top of quesadillas adds a delicious tang that balances the gooey cheese and tortilla.
- Guacamole: Mix them into your guacamole for an unexpected twist that pairs the creaminess of the avocado with the sharpness of the onions.
- Carnitas: Serve pickled red onions as a garnish for carnitas to introduce a vibrant crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender, slow-cooked pork.
- Burritos: Incorporate them into burritos to add a pop of color and a burst of flavor that elevates every ingredient wrapped inside.
- Chilaquiles: Topped with pickled red onions, chilaquiles gain a refreshing element that complements the dish’s rich and spicy flavors.
Want to try a recipe with a little more Aloha? Then you don’t want pass up our Hawaiian Pickled Onions Recipe!
Spice Suggestions for Elevating Your Mexican Pickled Red Onions
Transforming my simple recipe for pickled onions into a culinary delight hinges on the harmonious blend of spices.
Below are my top picks for spices that not only complement the onions but also add layers of flavor, making each jar explode with flavor:
- Mustard Seeds: These tiny seeds deliver a burst of tangy and spicy flavors that are both nuanced and impactful.
- Coriander Seeds: Their light citrusy hint marries well with the onions’ tang, infusing the mix with a refreshing zest.
- Black Peppercorns: Offering a bold contrast, these peppercorns add an earthy, spicy depth that anchors the onions’ brightness.
- Allspice Berries: Introducing a hint of warmth and subtle sweetness, allspice enriches the brine with a complex and inviting character.
- Bay Leaves: Their herbal notes blend seamlessly with the vinegar’s acidity, evoking a gentle echo of woodland.
- Cumin Seeds: Bringing a slightly smoky and earthy flavor, cumin seeds can add a new dimension of warmth that complements the onions beautifully.
- Oregano: For a touch of classic Mexican flavor, a sprinkle of dried oregano introduces an aromatic earthiness with a slight bitterness.
- Fennel Seeds: Their mild, anise-like taste adds an intriguing, slightly sweet layer that’s refreshingly different.
- Dill Seeds or Fresh Dill: This herb infuses the onions with a pop of bright, green flavor, enhancing the overall freshness.
- Red Chili Flakes: Just enough of these can add a warm, spicy edge that’s inviting rather than overwhelming, perfectly rounding out the profile.
Don’t Hesitate to Explore With Spices and Vinegars!
Diving into various spices and seasonings gives you the freedom to tailor your pickling recipes exactly to your taste.
Encourage your inner chef to be bold, experimenting with combinations and even adding a signature touch of your own.
The essence of pickling truly shines when you create a recipe that’s uniquely yours.
We must also acknowledge the influence of vinegars in pickling.
Choosing the right vinegar, ranging from the sharp tang of white vinegar to the gentle sweetness of apple cider, can significantly alter the flavor of your recipe.
Each type of vinegar offers a unique taste, encouraging a world of exploration and innovation.
Embark on Our Tasty Quest!
Venturing into the world of Mexican pickled red onions has been a fun part of my pickling voyage, opening up a realm of new tastes and methods.
We are excited to learn how these tangy onions revolutionize your dining experiences and snack times.
I invite you to share your experiences, pose questions, or share your own zingy pickling advice.
The universe of pickling is filled with uncharted flavors eager for discovery – let’s embark on this flavorful journey together.
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Your Questions Answered
To make sure you have all the information you need for a delicious experience, I’ve answered some frequently asked questions:
The addition of lime in this recipe lends a distinct citrusy undertone, which is often not found in other pickled red onion recipes.
This zesty hint complements the traditional tang of pickling, infusing the onions with a refreshing and vibrant flavor profile characteristic of many Mexican dishes.
Can I add traditional Mexican spices like cumin or coriander to enhance the flavor of the pickled onions?
Absolutely! Spices like cumin or coriander can add a delightful depth of flavor to the pickling process.
How long do Mexican pickled onions retain their vibrant flavor and color when stored?
When properly stored in the refrigerator, they can maintain their flavor and color for up to 2-3 weeks.
Would Mexican Pickled Red Onions pair well with both traditional Mexican dishes and other cuisines?
Yes, their versatile flavor profile allows them to complement traditional Mexican dishes and add a zesty twist to various global cuisines.
