Home Marinated Red Onions are a vibrant, tangy, and slightly sweet condiment that instantly elevates the flavor of any dish. With their beautiful pink hue and rich flavor, these onions are not only a treat to the taste buds but also a delight to the eyes. Whether added to tacos, burgers, sandwiches, salads, or grain bowls, marinated red onions provide a punch of acidity and crunch that enhances everything they touch.
The best part? They are incredibly easy to make at home with just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of preparation. Unlike store-bought versions that may contain preservatives or unnecessary additives, this homemade version is clean, fresh, and bursting with natural flavor. With just a little planning ahead, you can have a jar of delicious marinated onions ready to use at any time. Perfect for those who love to add a gourmet touch to everyday meals, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality taste with simple kitchen staples.
Ingredients
- 2 large red onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter taste)
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, sliced (optional for depth of flavor)
- 1 small chili pepper, sliced (optional for heat)
- A few sprigs of fresh herbs like thyme or oregano (optional for aroma)
Instructions
- Prepare the Onions: Begin by peeling the red onions and slicing them thinly. Use a mandoline slicer for even and consistent slices, but a sharp knife works well too. Place the sliced onions in a clean, dry glass jar or container that has a tight-fitting lid.
- Make the Brine: In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Stir the mixture well and place it over medium heat. Warm the brine just until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. There is no need to bring it to a boil; gentle heating is sufficient.
- Add Flavorings: Once the brine is ready, add in the optional flavorings like peppercorns, garlic slices, chili pepper, or herbs. These ingredients are not essential but can enhance the overall flavor and complexity of the onions.
- Pour the Brine: Carefully pour the warm brine over the sliced onions in the jar, ensuring that all the onions are submerged. You can press the onions down with a spoon or fork if needed to ensure they are covered by the liquid.
- Let it Cool: Allow the jar to cool to room temperature with the lid off. Once the contents have cooled down completely, seal the jar with the lid and place it in the refrigerator.
- Marinate and Store: Let the onions marinate for at least 1 hour before using, although they taste best after 24 hours. The onions will turn a bright pink color and become more flavorful as they sit. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Use and Enjoy: These marinated red onions can be used in a variety of ways. Add them to avocado toast for a zesty crunch, toss them into salads for an acidic punch, layer them into sandwiches or wraps for texture, or serve them alongside grilled meats or vegetarian dishes for added interest.