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Quick Pickled Onions Recipe

Quick Pickled Onions Recipe - Freshly Ingredients

Let’s talk about quick pickled onions. You might have seen them in trendy cafés or fancy restaurants, but they are deceptively easy to make at home. I remember the first time I had them—it was a game changer. 
One bite, and I realized just how much more a simple onion could offer. After that moment, I was on a mission. Not only did I want to recreate that taste, but I also wanted to experiment with my twist on the classic recipe.
Over time, I discovered that pickling is not just a way to preserve food; it’s an invitation to transform it into something extraordinary. 
Quick pickled onions are versatile, vibrant, and surprisingly simple to whip up. Trust me, you’ll want these zesty delights in your fridge at all times. After all, who doesn’t want a burst of flavor in every bite?
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 25
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/4 cup raw apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed chili flakes
  • 1 small clove garlic, finely minced
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons pure maple syrup or raw honey
  • 1/4 cup plain white vinegar
  • 1/2 cup filtered water
  • 1 medium purple onion, finely shaved into thin slices
  • 1/4 teaspoon whole mustard seeds
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons fine sea salt

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
  1. Start by gathering your ingredients. Peel and slice the medium purple onion thinly. The thinner the slice, the better. This ensures a quick pickle and a delightful crunch. Aim for about ⅛-inch thick slices.
Step 2: Make the Brine
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine ¼ cup of raw apple cider vinegar, ¼ cup of plain white vinegar, and ½ cup of filtered water. This combination creates a delightful tangy base.
    Then, add 1 ½ tablespoons of maple syrup (or honey if you prefer) for sweetness, alongside 1 ¼ teaspoons of fine sea salt for seasoning.
Step 3: Add Flavor Infusions
  1. To amp up the flavor, toss in the finely minced garlic, crushed chili flakes, and whole mustard seeds into the brine. These ingredients contribute complexity. Ironically, this pickle will be simple yet impressive.
Step 4: Combine the Onions and Brine
  1. Place the sliced onions into a clean jar or bowl. Pour the brine over them, making sure the onions are fully submerged. This step is essential for effective pickling.
Step 5: Let It Rest
  1. Let the onions marinate at room temperature for about 30-60 minutes. For even better flavor, let them rest in the fridge for at least a couple of hours or even overnight.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Quick Pickled Onions
  1. Once the pickled onions have had time to soak in the brine, they are ready to use. You’ll notice their color will change to a vibrant pink hue. This indicates they’ve absorbed the flavors beautifully.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh onions; their crispness is what makes them delightful.
  • Experiment with Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey to suit your taste preferences.
  • Culling Leftovers: If you have leftover brine, consider adding other vegetables like cucumbers or radishes for a new variation.
  • Adjust Thinning: Feel free to play with the vinegar-to-water ratio for a stronger or milder flavor.
  • Storing: Keep them in a sealed jar in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to two weeks, though they'll likely be gone long before then!