As a chef and food lover, I've learned that sometimes it's the simplest ingredients that can transform a dish from ordinary to extraordinary. And these pickled red onions do just that. Crafted with the freshest red onions, a delicate balance of vinegar, and a hint of sweetness, this recipe is a game-changer for home cooks and professional chefs alike. Ideal for tacos, sandwiches, salads, and BBQ dishes, this vibrant condiment promises to be the star in any meal setting. If you've been searching for the perfect gourmet touch or just looking to elevate your everyday recipes, look no further. Join me in mastering the art of pickling with this essential guide to making the best pickled red onions!
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Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 1h - 48h
Portion size: 8 servings as condiment
The Essential Ingredients:
2 medium red onions, sliced
250ml white wine vinegar
250ml water
5tbsp of granulated sugar
1tbsp of salt
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1tsp of peppercorns
1/2tsp of mustard seeds
chilli flakes (optional)
Step-by-Step to Pickling Perfection:
Prepare the Onion: Peel the red onion and slice it thinly. For consistently thin slices, use a mandoline. However, if you favour a crunchier texture, you can opt for thicker slices.
Prepare the Brine: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve completely. Remove from heat and allow to cool for a few minutes.
Add flavourings: If you're using any optional flavourings, add them to the bottom of a clean, sterilized jar.
Add the Onions: Place the sliced onions in the jar, pressing down if necessary to fit all the slices.
Pour in the Brine: Carefully pour the warm brine over the onions in the jar, ensuring the onions are completely submerged.
Let Them Marinate: Let the onions cool to room temperature. At this point, they are ready to eat or if you'd like to store the rest, seal the jar with a lid and place it in the refrigerator.
Serve: The pickled red onions will be at their best after 48 hours. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 weeks.
Culinary Insights:
Serving Suggestions: Pair these pickled red onions with grilled meats, fold them into a fresh salsa, or simply layer them on a hearty sandwich for a zesty kick.
Tips and Tricks: For a deeper flavour profile, consider using apple cider vinegar instead of white wine vinegar. Remember, the longer these onions sit in the brine, the more intense their flavour will become.
Nutritional Benefits: Not only are these pickled red onions a flavour bomb, but they also come with health benefits. Red onions are rich in antioxidants and can help improve digestive health.
Storage Hack: If you make a large batch, consider portioning and storing in smaller jars. This way, you can gift a jar to a fellow food lover or simply keep your stash fresh by opening one jar at a time."
Variations: Feel like experimenting? Try adding slices of beetroot for a more vibrant colour or toss in a few sprigs of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
From the Chef
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