Join me as we explore a classic pickling recipe: white onions soaked in the rich, velvety flavor of red wine vinegar.
This pickling recipe brings together the crisp bite of white onions with the deep, complex notes of red wine vinegar.
It’s a celebration of flavors that have stood the test of time. Each ingredient plays a pivotal role, creating a blend that’s both classic and delightful.
The mere thought of these onions marinating sends a wave of gourmet anticipation through my senses!
Pickled White Onions in Red Wine Vinegar
Equipment
- 1- 16oz pickling jar
- 1- Small Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 large white onion
- 8 ounces red 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.
- 1 bay leaf
- Optional- 1/2 tsp of whole black peppercorns
- Optional- 1/2 tsp of crushed red pepper
Instructions
- Begin by thinly slicing the onions and preparing any optional spices you prefer.
- Layer the onion slices in a sterilized, heat-proof jar.
- In a saucepan, mix the red wine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Heat until the sugar and salt dissolve.
- Gently pour the mixture over the onions, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Allow the jar to cool to room temperature, seal, and place in the fridge for 24 hours. The longer they marinate, the more intense the flavors.
Notes
Nutrition
Elevating Meals with Red Wine Vinegar Pickled White Onions
These pairings show how versatile pickled white onions with red wine vinegar can be, turning them into a standout feature in both simple and sophisticated dishes alike.
I’ve found their unique flavor profile enhances everything from laid-back barbecues to the most elegant of dinners.
- Charcuterie Boards: The acidity and depth of flavor in the pickled onions cut through the richness of cured meats and cheeses, adding a bright contrast.
- Grilled Steak: Top a perfectly grilled steak with these onions to introduce an element of tangy sharpness that enhances the meat’s savory notes.
- Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle or mix the onions with roasted root vegetables for an added layer of complexity and a hint of acidity.
- Salmon: Whether grilled, baked, or poached, the pickled onions add a delightful zing to the fatty richness of salmon, balancing the flavors beautifully.
- Caprese Salad: Give this classic salad a twist by adding pickled onions, enriching the fresh mozzarella and tomatoes with a touch of acidity and sweetness.
- Beef Tacos: Incorporate the onions into beef tacos for an extra burst of flavor that complements the spiciness and textures of the filling.
- Burgers: Elevate your burger by topping it with these tangy onions, adding a gourmet touch to the classic American dish.
- Potato Salad: Mix the pickled onions into your potato salad for an unexpected flavor twist that brightens the dish and adds a gourmet flair.
Want to try something new? Here’s a recipe sure to make you smile! Pickled white onions in apple cider vinegar-a flavor burst awaits!
The Perfect Symphony of Spices
In my pickling experiments, I’ve discovered a symphony of spices that harmonize beautifully with the rich, nuanced flavors of the vinegar and the crisp freshness of the onions.
Here’s a list of spices that I find elevate this recipe to new heights, adding layers of complexity and warmth to each jar:
- Juniper Berries: Their piney, slightly fruity notes add an intriguing depth that complements the red wine vinegar’s complexity.
- Black Peppercorns: The sharp bite of black pepper introduces a timeless warmth, enhancing the natural bite of the white onions.
- Bay Leaves: With their subtle, herbal essence, bay leaves infuse the pickling liquid with a whisper of the Mediterranean, bridging the gap between the tangy vinegar and the crisp onions.
- Thyme: The light, earthy tones of thyme lend a gentle hint of the garden, playing off the robust flavors of the vinegar beautifully.
- Rosemary: Its robust, needle-like leaves impart a woodsy, aromatic flavor that stands up well to the boldness of the red wine vinegar.
- Garlic Cloves: A few cloves of garlic add a pungent kick, creating a perfect counterpoint to the sweetness of the onions and the acidity of the vinegar.
- Coriander Seeds: These seeds bring a lemony, slightly floral spice that brightens the overall flavor profile, adding a layer of zest.
- Mustard Seeds: For a hint of tanginess and texture, mustard seeds mingle wonderfully with the other flavors, rounding out the spice palette with their piquant charm.
Embark on a Flavor Adventure with Spices and Vinegars!
Diving into the world of spices and vinegars has truly transformed my approach to pickling.
This is your invitation to a culinary playground where mixing and matching your favorite spices and vinegars to personalize each jar is encouraged.
The choice of vinegar, from the bold zest of white to the gentle nuance of rice vinegar, can redefine the flavors of your recipes.
Join the Pickling Conversation
I’ve shared my go-to method for pickling white onions with red wine vinegar, and now I’m eager to hear about your experiences.
Connect with fellow food enthusiasts by sharing your pickling adventures, questions, or even your favorite tweaks to this recipe.
Your insights not only inspire me but also help us all grow in our culinary exploits. So, don’t be shy, join my newsletter and let’s celebrate the flavors we create together!
A Toast to the Art of Pickling
As we wrap up this session of pickling onions using red wine vinegar, I hope you’ve felt inspired to try this elegant twist on a classic technique.
I’m sending these jars out into the world, like love letters, ready to add a dash of sophistication to dishes everywhere.
So, go ahead—indulge in the refined taste, add a slice of sophistication, and let every bite be an expression of your pickling curiosity.
Here’s to the delicate dance of flavors and the joy of pickling!
Answers to Your Pickling Questions
Welcome to my corner of pickling curiosities! I’m here to share my insights and answer the questions that might be bubbling up in your pickling journey.
Yes, you can definitely pickle with white wine vinegar; its mild and slightly fruity flavor makes for a delicate and sophisticated pickle.
Are pickled white onions the same as red onions?
No, pickled white onions and red onions are not the same; white onions tend to be milder and a bit sweeter, while pickled red onions often have a sharper flavor and add a vibrant pink color to dishes.
Can you pickle red onions without white vinegar?
Absolutely, you can pickle red onions using other vinegars like apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for varied flavors.
