Brilliant Bright Pink Pickled Onions Pubperfect in Minutes

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever wondered how to elevate your burger game? My secret weapon? Pickled onions . Seriously, they add the perfect zing! This recipe is easy peasy and gives you pink pickled onions bursting with flavour.

Brief Overview

Pickling onions has been around for ages. It is a method to preserve food. This recipe is super easy and takes about 20 minutes plus pickling time.

It yields about 2 cups, perfect for topping loads of dishes.

Main Benefits

These quick pickled onions are packed with flavour. The onions have minimal calories and add extra flavor. They're perfect for BBQs or adding a bit of fancy to a simple sandwich.

Pub-Style Perfection: Making the Brine

Let's talk brine! It's the heart of these easy pickled onions . Think vinegar, sugar, and spices all simmering together. We are using white wine vinegar for a classic flavour.

It really is similar to what you might find on your favourite pub meals.

You will need water, sugar, salt, peppercorns, and bay leaves. For a touch of heat, add some red pepper flakes.

Mix everything in a saucepan. Simmer until the sugar and salt dissolve. That's it! Easy, right? The brine gives the red onion that amazing flavour.

From Red to Rosy: Slicing and Submerging

Thinly slicing the red onions is key. Use a knife or a mandoline. Be careful with the mandoline! Those things are sharp. Once sliced, pack the onions into your sterilized jars .

Pour the hot brine over the onions. Make sure they are fully submerged. Gently press down to release any air bubbles.

Let them cool before sealing and refrigerating. The colour will deepen into beautiful pink pickled onions overnight.

Serving Suggestions: Beyond the Burger

These homemade pickled onions are so versatile! I love them on burgers, tacos, and salads. They're also great on a ploughman's lunch , next to some cheese and Branston pickle .

Even Mrs. Patmore would approve adding them to a charcuterie board !

You could also use a sugar substitute instead of sugar in the pickle if you wish. Why not try using apple cider vinegar or even pickled shallots for a change? Experiment and find your favourite flavour!

Ingredients & Equipment

Ready to whip up some brilliant bright pink pickled onions ? It's super easy, promise! These quick pickled onions are way better than anything you'd buy in a shop.

Trust me, you'll be hooked.

Main Players: What You Need

Alright, let's gather our goodies!

• Red Onions: You'll need 2 medium red onions (about 300g total). Look for firm ones with smooth, shiny skin. Avoid any with soft spots. They should be good quality.
• White Wine Vinegar: Grab 1 cup (240ml) . The better the vinegar, the better the flavor. Don’t skimp!
• Water: 1 cup (240ml) . Tap water is fine.
• Sugar: 1/2 cup (100g) . I prefer granulated, but you could try a sugar substitute .
• Kosher Salt: 1 tablespoon .
• Black Peppercorns: 1 teaspoon , crushed.
• Bay Leaves: 2 .
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for a kick).

Seasoning Notes

Want to make these pickled onions amazing ? Here's the deal.

For that classic tangy flavour, the white wine vinegar is key. If you want a slightly different vibe, apple cider vinegar works well too.

Also, Pickled shallots would be nice if you are short on red onion!

A little sweetness balances the vinegar. I like sugar, but maple syrup is a great alternative. It adds a hint of caramel.

Don't forget the aromatics! The peppercorns and bay leaves add depth. A pinch of red pepper flakes? Totally up to you if you like a bit of heat.

Equipment Needed

No fancy gadgets needed here!

• Mandoline Slicer: (Optional) Makes slicing the onions super fast and even. Be careful.
• Medium Saucepan: For simmering the brine.
• Sterilized Jars: Essential for storing your pickled onions . You need airtight lids.
• Measuring Cup or Pitcher: To pour the hot brine.

Got it all? Great! Let's make some homemade pickled onions . They're perfect on everything from burgers to a ploughman’s lunch . You can even put them on a charcuterie board !

I had a jar of these disappear once at a family barbecue people couldn't get enough! Making pink pickled onions is a game changer for any meal.

Think pub style pickled onions , but better. This simple pickled onion recipe is a guaranteed hit! Especially if you want to add pickled onions for burgers .

Cooking Method: Pub-Style Pink Pickled Onions in a Flash!

Honestly, who doesn't love a good pickled onion ? Especially those bright pink pickled onions you get in pubs. Forget boring, vinegary onions, this recipe is a game changer! It's quick, easy, and adds zing to everything.

Seriously, I mean everything. From burgers to salads, even a cheeky forkful straight from the jar.

Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place Mission

• Slice your red onion thin. A mandoline is your friend here, but watch your fingers!
• Get all your ingredients measured out. It saves so much time, you know?
• Make sure your sterilized jars are ready. Nobody wants nasty surprises later.

step-by-step to Pickled Onion Perfection

1. Thinly slice 2 medium red onions .
2. Combine 1 cup white wine vinegar , 1 cup water, ½ cup sugar, 1 tbsp salt, 1 tsp peppercorns, and 2 bay leaves in a saucepan.
3. Bring the brine to a simmer. Stir until sugar and salt dissolve.
4. Pack onions into sterilized jars .
5. Pour the hot brine over the onions, making sure they're submerged.
6. Cool to room temperature.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours , preferably overnight.

Pro Tips for the Best Pickled Onions Ever

Want next level quick pickled onions ? Here's the goss!

• Use good quality white wine vinegar . It makes a difference.
• Avoid overcooking the onions. You want them to still have some bite.
• Make a bigger batch! They last for weeks in the fridge, and you’ll be reaching for them constantly. Trust me!
• make-ahead: Definitely! The flavours develop over time, so they only get better. You can also play around with apple cider vinegar to add more flavour. Try adding a dash of maple syrup to add a little sweetness!
• Don't have sugar? Feel free to use a sugar substitute to sweeten the deal!

So there you have it! My guide to homemade pickled onions that are just, pub-perfect. I love to serve these vibrant pickled onions for burgers , salads, a ploughman’s lunch or even as part of a charcuterie board with a Mature cheddar and some Branston pickle !

I hope you love this pickled onion recipe as much as I do!

Recipe Notes for Perfect Pickled Onions

Right, so you're about to dive into making some epic pink pickled onions . Here are a few extra nuggets of wisdom to make sure they turn out spot-on.

Honestly, these tips are what separate a good pickled onion recipe from a great one.

Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Plate

Okay, presentation time! These quick pickled onions aren't just tasty. They look fab too. Pile them high on a ploughman’s lunch next to some proper cheddar.

They also work wonders on a charcuterie board . Think of them as the punk rock of your cheese and meat selection.

Don't forget a good ol' burger. The tang of the pickled onions for burgers cuts through the richness like nobody's business.

Or, if you're feeling fancy, sprinkle them over a grilled fish taco. Mind blown.

Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh

Right, let's talk storage. Once your homemade pickled onions have cooled, pop them in the fridge. They'll keep for about 2-3 weeks, easy peasy.

Just make sure the red onion slices are always submerged in the brine .

Freezing isn't really recommended, to be honest. The texture can get a bit weird. But in the fridge, these bad boys will stay crunchy and delicious.

Just grab a fork and fish 'em out whenever you need a zing!

Variations: Making it Your Own

Fancy a twist? You can easily adapt this recipe. For a sugar-free version, try a sugar substitute like Monk Fruit. I've done this and it is spot on!

Want even more flavour? Swap out the white wine vinegar for apple cider vinegar . It gives a slightly sweeter, fruitier vibe.

A dash of maple syrup could also be added for sweetness instead of sugar. It imparts that nice woodsy taste.

The flexibility of the recipe is what makes it so accessible to different palettes.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Jar

Let's break it down. These easy pickled onions are low in calories and fat. They're also a decent source of Vitamin C from the onions themselves.

A serving is roughly 1/4 cup, and that's about 30 calories. Remember, this is just an estimate. The real value might vary depending on exactly how much sugar you add!

So there you have it. With these tips in your back pocket, you're ready to make the best pub style pickled onions ever.

Don’t worry if you don't get it perfect the first time. It's all about experimenting and having fun! Happy pickling, you legend!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of onions for pickled onions?

Absolutely! While red onions give a lovely colour and a slightly milder flavour, you can use white or yellow onions. Just be aware that the colour will be different, and the flavour may be a bit more pungent. For the best pink hue like you'd find at your local pub, stick with red!

How long do pickled onions last, and how should I store them?

When stored properly in a sterilized jar in the refrigerator, pickled onions can last for up to 2-3 weeks. Always ensure the onions are fully submerged in the brine to prevent spoilage. If you notice any signs of mould or a funky smell, best to chuck 'em better safe than sorry, eh?

My pickled onions are too vinegary! How can I fix this?

Vinegar intensity is a common issue. Next time, try reducing the amount of vinegar slightly, or increasing the sugar to balance the acidity. You can also use a milder vinegar like apple cider or rice vinegar instead of white wine vinegar. A little honey added to the brine can also mellow out the vinegar bite.

Are these pickled onions actually good for you? What's the nutritional lowdown?

Pickled onions, in moderation, can offer some health benefits. They retain some of the nutritional value of raw onions, like vitamins and antioxidants. However, the pickling process does add sugar and sodium, so be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you're watching your intake.

They're not exactly a superfood, but they're certainly a flavourful addition to a balanced diet!

Can I make quick pickled onions without cooking the brine?

While you can make pickled onions without cooking the brine, simmering it helps dissolve the sugar and salt properly, ensuring a better flavour and longer shelf life. Cooking the brine also helps to soften the onions slightly.

If you're really short on time, you can dissolve the sugar and salt in the vinegar and water by stirring vigorously until dissolved, but the result won't be quite as consistent.

What are some great ways to use these pickled onions?

These vibrant pickled onions are incredibly versatile! Think beyond just burgers. They're fantastic on tacos, salads, sandwiches, and even pizzas. For a proper British treat, serve them with cheese and crackers for a ploughman's lunch!

They also make a brilliant addition to a charcuterie board or as a vibrant garnish for grilled meats and vegetables.