Quick Pickled Red Onions with Whole Spices Recipe
These tangy pickled red onions transform from sharp and pungent to mildly sweet and acidic in just 30 minutes. The simple brine of vinegar, sugar, and salt creates the perfect balance, while whole spices like star anise, coriander, and mustard seeds add aromatic complexity. Perfect as a condiment for tacos, sandwiches, salads, or grain bowls, these pickles brighten any dish with their vibrant color and zesty crunch. The quick pickling method means no canning required - just slice, pour, and wait.
Ingredients
- 1 red onion, halved and very thinly sliced
- 1 ½ cups white vinegar
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons salt
- ¼ teaspoon whole black peppercorns(optional)
- ⅛ teaspoon coriander seeds(optional)
- ⅛ teaspoon brown mustard seeds(optional)
- 1 whole star anise(optional)
- 1 dried birds eye chile(optional)serrano pepper1/4 slicedvegetarianvegan
fresh heat
Instructions
- 1
Place sliced red onion into a large bowl
- 2
Combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a small pot
- 3
Heat mixture over medium heat and simmer until sugar and salt dissolve
- 4
Pour hot vinegar mixture over sliced onion
- 5
Stir gently and let sit for at least 30 minutes
- 6
Transfer to airtight container if storing
Tips
Add spices to the onions before pouring the hot brine for maximum flavor infusion
Use a mandoline or very sharp knife for paper-thin onion slices that pickle more quickly
Let cool completely before refrigerating to prevent condensation in the jar
Good to Know
Refrigerate in airtight container up to 2 months
Can be made immediately before serving or up to 2 months ahead
Serve at room temperature as condiment for tacos, sandwiches, salads
Common Mistakes
Slice onions too thick to avoid slow pickling
Let mixture cool before transferring to avoid jar cracking
Substitutions
Vegan Options
fresh heat
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use different types of onions?
Yes, white or yellow onions work but red onions provide the best color and mild flavor for quick pickling.
How long do these keep in the refrigerator?
Properly stored in an airtight container, pickled onions last up to 2 months in the refrigerator.
Can I skip the spices?
Absolutely, the basic brine of vinegar, water, sugar and salt creates delicious pickles on its own.