I’m excited to share one of my favorite kitchen secrets with you: homemade pickled white onions in apple cider vinegar.
Now, they may sound a bit gourmet, but believe me, they are incredibly simple to make. Not only that, but they bring an amazing burst of flavor to almost any meal.
And if you’re thinking, ‘I’ve never pickled anything before,’ don’t worry.
You won’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients for this. Just a few basic items from the store, and you’ll be all set to turn ordinary white onions into a tongue tantalizing treat!
Pickled White Onions In Apple Cider Vinegar
Equipment
- 1- 16oz pickling jar
- 1- Small Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 large white onion
- 8 ounces apple cider 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 whole black peppercorns
- Optional- 1 bay leaf
- Optional- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Start by slicing the onions into half moons and preparing any optional spices you like.
- Arrange the onion slices in a sterilized jar.
- In a saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
- Carefully pour the mixture over the onions, covering them completely.
- Allow the jar to cool to room temperature, add the top and refrigerate. Give it at least 2 hours to pickle. For optimal flavor, wait at least 24 hours.
Notes
Nutrition
Tasty Pairings for Pickled White Onions in Apple Cider Vinegar
Whether I’m giving a simple dish a little extra flair or adding a gourmet touch to a classic, these onions never fail to impress.
Here’s how they’ve elevated my meals:
- Tacos and Nachos: Their refreshing tang is a perfect foil for the heat of jalapeños and the richness of guacamole, creating a delightful balance in every bite.
- Sandwiches and Wraps: Imagine a tangy crunch in your favorite sandwich or wrap, cutting through creamy mayonnaise or rich meats, and adding a layer of complexity.
- Salads: These onions can turn even the simplest of green salads into a vibrant dish, their acidity complementing vinaigrettes and creamy dressings alike.
- BBQ Dishes: Their acidity and crisp texture are ideal for cutting through the richness of barbecued meats, making them a great side for everything from ribs to pulled pork.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add a spoonful atop roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots for an instant flavor upgrade.
- Grain Bowls: Sprinkle some atop your quinoa or rice bowls for a burst of flavor that ties together other components like roasted veggies, legumes, and sauces.
- Egg Dishes: A fantastic addition to scrambled eggs, omelets, or even a breakfast burrito, providing a tangy contrast to the creamy texture of eggs.
These pickled onions are not just a condiment; they’re a way to add a burst of flavor to everyday meals.
Get creative and experiment with different dishes – the possibilities are endless!
Ready to jazz up your palate? If you’re in the mood for a zesty adventure, our Pickled onions and radishes recipe is your next culinary escapade!
Additional Flavor Boosters
Elevating your pickled onions to the next level is all about personalizing them with unique flavor profiles.
Here are some of my favorite spice additions that can transform your recipe into something amazing:
- A slice of ginger: Not only does it add a warm, spicy kick, but ginger also infuses a subtle, exotic aroma that complements the apple cider vinegar beautifully.
- A few sprigs of dill: Dill brings a herby, fresh note that pairs perfectly with the tangy onions, giving them a Scandinavian twist.
- A slice of lemon: The citrusy zing of lemon brightens the overall flavor, adding a refreshing and slightly tart element that’s irresistible.
- A few cloves: These little spice bombs add an intense, sweet aroma, lending a touch of sophistication and depth to your pickled onions.
- Chili flakes: Ideal for heat lovers, chili flakes introduce a fiery dimension that balances well with the vinegar’s acidity, making every bite exciting.
Set Sail on a Culinary Quest with Spices and Vinegars!
Diving into the world of pickling lets you put your own spin on every jar. By combining different spices and aromatics, you turn each batch into a showcase of your personal flavor preferences.
Don’t forget, the type of vinegar you choose is key to defining your pickle’s taste, with each variety offering its own unique essence.
For a detailed journey through the diverse world of vinegars and their distinct tastes, check out my full guide on vinegar!
Join Our Pickling Community!
I’m thrilled at the prospect of seeing how these zesty, crisp onions enhance your dishes and bring life to your meals.
I’m here to listen to your stories of pickling, answer any burning questions, or learn about your unique pickling ventures.
The world of pickling is a vast expanse of undiscovered flavors ready for us to uncover.
Stay tuned for our straightforward pickling guides and innovative recipes by signing up for our newsletter.
Together, let’s keep the spark of pickling alive, crafting one delicious jar of pickled white onions after another!
A Pickling Farewell
As we conclude our recipe of pickled white onions in apple cider vinegar, I hope you’re inspired to experiment with this lively variation.
Picture these jars in your fridge, not just as condiments, but as vibrant culinary statements.
Embrace the joy of cooking with these zesty additions and let each dish be an adventure in taste.
Until our next culinary exploration, happy pickling, and enjoy the dance of flavors in every crunchy bite!
A Few Helpful Questions Answered
Both white vinegar and apple cider vinegar are excellent for pickling onions, but they offer different flavors.
White vinegar gives a sharp, strong pickling flavor, while apple cider vinegar provides a milder, slightly sweet and fruity taste.
How long do pickled onions last in vinegar?
Pickled onions in vinegar typically last for about 2 to 4 weeks in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Their flavor continues to develop over time.
Do I need to soak onions before pickling?
Personally, I don’t pre-soak my onions before pickling. I find that they still achieve a delightful crunch and absorb the vinegar flavors beautifully without the extra step.