Description
Spicy pickled onions are the perfect condiment that adds a punch of heat and tanginess to your meals. Packed with bold flavors, these zesty onions are simple and easy to make. Perfect to serve with your tacos, burgers, or sandwiches, or simply want to enjoy them straight out of the jar as a mouthwatering snack.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 cups red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 chilli thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (You can also experiment with different types of vinegar, such as red wine vinegar or white wine vinegar.)
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Onions and Chili: Begin by thinly slicing 2 cups of red onions and ½ medium red chilli.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, water, tablespoons of sugar, sea salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar, and salt completely dissolve.
- Bring to a Simmer: Once the mixture reaches a simmer, let it cook for a couple of minutes. This helps meld the flavors together and ensures the pickling solution is well-infused.
- Layer the Onions and Chili: In a clean, sterilized jar, layer the thinly sliced red onions and chili.
- Pour the Pickling Liquid: Carefully pour the simmered pickling liquid over the onions and chili, ensuring they are completely submerged. The heat of the liquid will start to soften the vegetables.
- Cool and Refrigerate: Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature before sealing the jar and transferring it to the refrigerator. The longer the pickled onions sit, the more pronounced the flavors become. Aim for at least a few hours, if not overnight, for optimal taste.
- Enjoy with Everything: These Spicy Pickled Onions are incredibly versatile. Add them to tacos, sandwiches, salads, or charcuterie boards for a burst of flavor. They also make a fantastic accompaniment to grilled meats or as a topping for your favorite bowl of chili.
Notes
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- Thin Slicing: Ensure the red onions and chili are thinly sliced.
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- Swap ground pepper with 2 teaspoons of whole black peppercorns into the liquid. The peppercorns will impart a warm, earthy flavor that complements the onions' sharpness and the chili's heat.
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- Experiment with Chili Heat: Tailor the level of spiciness to your preference by adjusting the amount of red chili. For milder pickled onions, use less chili or remove the seeds. If you love the heat, keep the seeds and membrane for an extra kick.
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- Sterilize Your Jar: Before assembling your pickled onions, sterilize the jar to prevent unwanted bacteria. You can do this by washing it thoroughly and then placing it in a 250°F (120°C) oven for about 10 minutes or by running it through a hot dishwasher cycle.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish