These easy pickled onions are tangy and sweet, adding a burst of flavor to any meal. With just a few ingredients like onions, vinegar, and sugar, they come together quickly!
They’re perfect on tacos or in sandwiches, and you’ll feel like a chef in no time! I love that they only take a few minutes to prep and make everything taste better. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Onions: These are key for adding color and a mild flavor. If you’re out, yellow onions can work too, but they’ll be a bit sharper. Sweet onions can also be used for a milder taste.
Red Wine Vinegar: This gives the pickled onions their tang. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or apple cider vinegar are good substitutes, though they will have slightly different flavors.
Sugar: Caster sugar dissolves quickly, but regular granulated sugar is fine. For a healthier option, try honey or agave syrup, keeping in mind that this will alter the taste slightly.
Sea Salt: This is essential for flavor. If you’re using table salt, use a bit less, as it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Properly Pickle Onions Without Any Issues?
Pickling onions is pretty straightforward, but getting it just right is all about timing and patience! Make sure to slice the onions thinly; this helps them absorb the pickling liquid better.
- Start by mixing your vinegar, sugar, and salt over medium heat until dissolved. Avoid boiling to keep the flavors fresh.
- Once you pour the hot liquid over the onions, ensure they are fully submerged. This prevents any from spoiling above the liquid line.
- Cooling them down is key. After cooling, seal your jar and refrigerate. Let them pickle for at least an hour, but 24 hours makes them even tastier.
Easy Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large red onions, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons caster sugar (or granulated sugar)
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns (optional)
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of preparation time, plus at least 1 hour to allow the onions to pickle in the fridge. For the best flavor, aim to let them sit for 24 hours before enjoying them.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Onions:
Begin by peeling and thinly slicing the red onions. The thinner the slices, the better they will absorb the pickling liquid. Once sliced, place the onions in a clean, heatproof jar or a bowl where they can soak up all that delicious flavor.
2. Make the Pickling Liquid:
In a saucepan, combine the red wine vinegar, water, sugar, and sea salt. If you’re using them, add the black peppercorns and bay leaf for extra flavor. Heat this mixture gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved. Remember, you don’t want it to boil, just warm it enough to mix everything well.
3. Combine and Submerge:
Once the mixture is ready, carefully pour the hot vinegar mixture over the sliced onions in the jar or bowl. Ensure that the onions are fully submerged in the liquid. This helps them pickle evenly and preserves their bright color and crunch.
4. Cool and Refrigerate:
Allow the onions to cool to room temperature before covering them with a lid or plastic wrap. Place them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour—though waiting 24 hours will enhance the flavor greatly. The longer you let them sit, the tangier they will become!
5. Enjoy Your Pickled Onions:
Once your pickled onions are ready, you can use them to add a tangy kick to sandwiches, tacos, salads, or grilled meats. Store them in the fridge, and they will keep well for up to 2 weeks.
Enjoy these crisp, vibrant pickled onions that will surely add a perfect zing to your dishes, inspired by Gordon Ramsay’s straightforward approach!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use White Onions Instead of Red Onions?
Yes, you can! However, white onions will have a sharper flavor compared to the milder and sweeter taste of red onions. If you prefer a bit less bite, consider soaking the sliced white onions in cold water for about 30 minutes before pickling.
How Long Do the Pickled Onions Last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these pickled onions will last for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to use clean utensils when retrieving them to maintain their freshness.
Can I Adjust the Sugar Level in the Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the sugar to 1 tablespoon or omit it entirely. Keep in mind that it may slightly alter the overall flavor, making them more tangy.
What Other Flavors Can I Add to the Pickling Liquid?
You can get creative! Try adding herbs like thyme, dill, or garlic cloves for extra flavor. Just be mindful not to overcrowd the jar; a little goes a long way!
