Quick-Pickled Red Onions
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This bright, jewel-toned condiment offers a zesty tang to countless dishes and adds a lovely splash of color as well. It takes about 10 minutes to assemble and lasts for weeks in the refrigerator. What more can you want from a pickle?
MAKES: 2 Cups
PREP/COOK TIME: 15 minutes
- 1 medium red onion, about 5 ounces
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup rice vinegar, white wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar
- 1 small clove of garlic, halved
- 5 black peppercorns
- 5 allspice berries
- 3 small sprigs of thyme
PREPARATION
Slice the onions: Start 2 or 3 cups of water on to boil in a kettle. Peel and thinly slice the onion into approximately 1/4-inch moons. Peel and cut the garlic clove in half.
Dissolve the sugar and salt: In the container you will be using to store the onions, add the sugar, salt, vinegar, and flavorings. Stir to dissolve.
Par-blanch the onions: Place the onions in the sieve and place the sieve in the sink. Slowly pour the boiling water over the onions and let them drain.
Add the onions to the jar: Add the onions to the jar and stir gently to evenly distribute the flavorings
Storage The onions will be ready in about 30 minutes, but are better after a few hours. Store in the refrigerator. They will keep for several weeks, but are best in the first week. Be sure to store your pickled onions in a glass or ceramic container. Most metals will react with the vinegar, and plastic will absorb the flavors.
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