Let me share with you one of my absolute favorite pickling discoveries: making homemade pickled onions in white wine vinegar.
Imagine crisp, tantalizing onions, bathed in the refined, elegant flavors of white wine vinegar – it’s a simple trick that has elevated many of my meals from ordinary to extraordinary.
Pickled Onions in White Wine Vinegar
Equipment
- 1 16oz pickling jar
- 1 Small Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 large red onion
- 8 ounces white wine vinegar
- 4 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 sugar- For a low-carb or keto option, try using monk fruit or other types of sweeteners.
- Optional- 1/2 tsp of whole black peppercorns
- Optional- 1/2 tsp of crushed red pepper
Instructions
- For maximum flavor absorption, thinly slice a red onion into half moons. Make sure to separate the slices
- Now, place onions in a sterilized, heat-proof jar.
- In a small saucepan, add your water, white wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and any optional spices. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
- Pour the hot brine over the onions.
- Let the jar cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, let them sit for a day or two.
- Store them in the fridge and enjoy within two weeks for the freshest flavor.
Notes
Nutrition
Flavor Enhancements: Elevate Your Pickled Onions
1. For a Citrus Twist:
- My Go-To Ingredients: 2-3 strips of lemon or orange zest (about 2 inches each)
- My Experience: I enjoy the way these citrus zests bring a lively, refreshing note to the onions. It’s a simple addition, but it transforms the entire flavor profile. The zesty undertones really complement the vinegar, making each bite a delightful surprise.
2. Herb Infusion:
- What I Use: 1 sprig of rosemary (about 3 inches long) or 2-3 sprigs of thyme.
- Personal Insight: Adding herbs like rosemary or thyme is like weaving a hint of the garden into each jar. Rosemary’s piney touch and thyme’s minty notes bring a beautiful aromatic quality to the onions. It’s a subtle change, but it adds a lovely complexity to the overall taste.
3. Spice It Up:
- Ingredients I Love: 1 whole clove of garlic, lightly crushed. 1/4 tsp of chili flakes (adjust to your preference).
- Why I Recommend It: For a bit of excitement, I often throw in a clove of garlic and a sprinkle of chili flakes. The garlic adds depth, and the chili flakes introduce a gentle, inviting heat. This combination is perfect for those who enjoy a little extra kick in their dishes.
I’ve found that playing around with these spices and aromatics can turn a simple jar of pickled onions into a real treat.
Remember, the choice of vinegar can also redefine your pickling experience. Whether it’s the rich fruitiness of apple cider, the sharp tang of white vinegar, or the delicate sweetness of rice vinegar, each type adds a unique twist
If you are a lover of red wine, this recipe won’t disappoint! Pickled red onions in red wine vinegar-a flavor explosion awaits!
Creative Ways to Enjoy Pickled Onions in White Wine Vinegar
In Sandwiches: There’s nothing quite like the sharp, vinegary crunch of these onions amidst creamy cheese or rich meats. They add a zing that elevates even the simplest sandwich.
Salad Toppers: A sprinkle of these tangy onions can transform a green salad. The burst of acidity pairs beautifully with everything from delicate spinach to robust arugula.
Cheese Boards: They’re a tangy, delightful companion to soft cheeses and crackers. I love watching friends’ faces light up when they try this combination!
With Grilled Meats: Their acidity and crisp texture cut through the richness of grilled meats, making them a must-have at any barbecue.
In Breakfast Dishes: Ever tried them with scrambled eggs or a fluffy omelet? They bring a wonderful tang that complements the creaminess of the eggs, making for an unexpectedly delicious breakfast.
On Pizza: This might sound unconventional, but try scattering them over a freshly baked pizza. They add a lively contrast to the gooey cheese and savory toppings – a real flavor-changer in my pizza nights!
As a Taco Topping: Tacos are a regular in my kitchen, and adding pickled onions brings a whole new dimension of flavor. They provide a refreshing contrast to the spices and textures of the taco fillings.
These are just a few ways I love to incorporate these versatile onions into meals.
The beauty of pickled onions is their ability to adapt and enhance a wide range of dishes, adding layers of flavor with just a spoonful.
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My Pickling Farewell Note
As we finish up our pickled onions in white wine vinegar recipe, I’m reminded of the countless times my they have lit up gatherings.
Each jar isn’t just a condiment; it’s a testament to the art of pickling, a symbol of shared joy and creativity.
When friends and family reach for a helping, their smiles and compliments are a reminder of the magic of pickling.
It’s a process that turns the ordinary into something extraordinary, bringing smiles to peoples faces.
So, as you embark on your own pickling adventures, remember that you’re not just spicing up a dish; you’re crafting a piece of art that has the power to delight and unite.
Here’s to the joy of pickling, a journey of flavor that enhances both our tables and our gatherings!
Frequently Asked Questions: Mastering the Art of Pickling Onions
As you get started on your recipe, it’s natural to have questions about the process.
I’ve compiled some of the most common inquiries I’ve encountered, along with my insights, to help you along the way!
Both white vinegar and apple cider vinegar are excellent choices for pickling onions, but they offer different flavor profiles.
White vinegar provides a sharp, clean acidity, making it ideal for a more pronounced pickled taste. Apple cider vinegar, on the other hand, imparts a milder, subtly sweet flavor.
Absolutely! Mixing white and apple cider vinegars can create a balanced flavor profile.
This combination allows you to enjoy the crisp acidity of white vinegar with the gentle sweetness of apple cider vinegar. Experiment with different ratios to find your perfect blend.
White vinegar is chosen over apple cider vinegar for its stronger, more robust acidic flavor.
It’s ideal if you’re aiming for a more traditional pickled taste that stands out, especially in dishes where you want the pickled onions to be a prominent flavor component.
Additionally, white vinegar’s clear color preserves the natural color of the onions, which might be preferred in certain recipes.
Classic options include mustard seeds, black peppercorns, and coriander seeds for a traditional pickling taste.
For a more aromatic touch, try adding a cinnamon stick, cloves, or star anise. If you prefer a bit of heat, red chili flakes or a small piece of fresh chili can do wonders.
Herbs like dill, rosemary, or thyme also add a delightful fragrance and complexity.
Feel free to experiment with different combinations to discover what tantalizes your taste buds the most!
