
Quick Pickled Red Onions with Warm Spices
Ingredients
- 4 red onions thinly sliced
- 250 ml water
- 250 ml white vinegar
- 2 tbsp caster sugar
- 1 tsp mixed whole spices such as black peppercorns, allspice berries, cardamom or star anise
Instructions
- Peel the red onions and slice them very thinly, using a mandoline if available.4 red onions
- Pack the sliced red onions into a clean glass jar, leaving a little space at the top.
- Heat the water, white vinegar, caster sugar and whole spices in a small saucepan until boiling and the sugar has dissolved.250 ml water, 250 ml white vinegar, 2 tbsp caster sugar, 1 tsp mixed whole spices
- Pour the hot brine over the onions, making sure they are covered. Seal the jar and leave to cool completely.
- Use after about 1 hour for a quick pickle, or chill for a stronger flavour.
Chef's notes
- Store in the fridge once cool and use within 1 week.
- White vinegar gives the brightest pink colour. Apple cider vinegar gives a softer, fruitier flavour.
- For a milder onion flavour, rinse the sliced onions briefly under cold water before adding them to the jar.
- Serve with tacos, burgers, salads, grilled meat, falafel, eggs or cheese sandwiches.
- Use clean jars and utensils each time to keep the onions in good condition.
Drink pairing
Alcoholic
- Dry Riesling or Grüner Veltliner for bright acidity and freshness
- Mexican lager with lime for tacos, burgers and grilled food
- Dry cider with crisp apple acidity for cheese boards and salads
Non alcoholic
- Sparkling water with lime and mint for a clean, sharp match
- Unsweetened iced tea with lemon for a dry, refreshing pairing
- Ginger cordial with soda water for gentle warmth against the vinegar




















