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pickled red onion in a jar

Pickled Red Onions Recipe

A tangy and colorful addition to any dish! Pickled red onions are easy to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for weeks.
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Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large red onion or 2 small red onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup 240 ml white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 cup 240 ml water
  • 1/4 cup 50 g granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon 15 g sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon 5 g mustard seeds
  • 1 teaspoon 5 g fennel seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon 2 g turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon 2 g red chili flakes (adjust to taste for heat)
  • 2 cloves garlic thinly sliced
  • 1 bay leaf optional
  • Chopped cilantro leaves or seeds for dressing.

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Onion:
  • o Thinly slice the red onion and place it in a clean, heatproof jar.
  • Make the Pickling Liquid:
  • o In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, fennel seeds, turmeric powder, red chili flakes, and garlic. Add bay leaf if using. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes.
  • Pickle the Onions:
  • o Pour the hot pickling liquid over the onions in the jar. Ensure onions are fully submerged and tap the jar to release any air bubbles.
  • Cool and Store:
  • o Let the jar cool to room temperature, then seal with a lid and refrigerate. Wait at least 1 hour before using; flavors improve with 24 hours.
  • Serve with dressing.

Notes

  • Substitutions: For a milder pickle, adjust the red chili flakes or leave them out. You can also use lemon juice instead of vinegar for a different tangy flavor.
  • Storage: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.