Make these pickled onions and be amazed at the results.
Make these pickled onions and be amazed at the results. is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 20 calories per serving. Recipe by YumMakers on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 30 min
Cost: $1.40 total, $0.35 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 medium Red Onion (peeled and thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar (white granulated)
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (or table salt)
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 0.5 cup Apple Cider Vinegar (or grape vinegar)
- 1 cup Hot Water (just boiled)
Instructions
Slice the onions
Peel the red onions and slice them thinly (about 1/8 inch) using a sharp knife or mandoline.
Time: PT5M
Prepare the brine
In a saucepan combine the sugar, salt, black pepper, apple cider vinegar, and hot water. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: simmer
Pack the jar
Place the sliced onions tightly into the glass jar. Pour the hot brine over the onions, ensuring they are fully submerged. Seal the jar tightly.
Time: PT5M
Rest and develop flavor
Let the sealed jar sit at room temperature for about 7 hours (or overnight) to allow the onions to absorb the brine. After the resting period, transfer the jar to the refrigerator.
Time: PT7H
Serve
Use the pickled onions as a topping for tacos, burgers, salads, or any dish that needs a tangy crunch.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 20
- Protein
- 0.3g
- Carbohydrates
- 5g
- Fat
- 0g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Low-Calorie
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Red Onion: White onion, Sweet onion
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: Honey (use less), Maple syrup (adjust amount)
- Instead of Kosher Salt: Sea salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
- Instead of Apple Cider Vinegar: White wine vinegar, Rice vinegar
Equipment Needed
- Glass Jar with Lid
- Saucepan
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Spoons
- Measuring Cup
- Stirring Spoon
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Slice onions uniformly
- Fully dissolve sugar and salt in the brine
- Ensure onions are completely submerged and jar is sealed
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use red onions for the best color contrast.
- Add a small clove of garlic or a few mustard seeds for extra depth.
- Rinse the jar before reuse to avoid residual flavors.
Troubleshooting
Onions are still crunchy after 24 hours.
Increase the resting time to 48 hours or add a little more vinegar to the brine.
Onions are soggy and mushy.
Reduce the amount of water or shorten the resting time; ensure the onions are sliced thinly but not too thin.
Brine looks cloudy or sugar hasn't dissolved.
Heat the brine a bit longer and stir until completely clear; avoid adding cold water.
Storage
Refrigerator: Up to 2 weeks
Freezer: Not recommended
Room temperature: Only during the 7‑hour resting period
Make-Ahead Tips
- Pickled onions can be made up to a week in advance; keep refrigerated.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the brine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of pickled onions in American cuisine?
Pickled onions have been a staple in American home cooking since the 19th century, originally used as a way to preserve the harvest and add a tangy crunch to meals. They became popular in Southern and Midwestern kitchens as a condiment for sandwiches, salads, and barbecues.
What are traditional regional variations of pickled onions in the United States?
In the Southern U.S., pickled onions are often made with white vinegar and a pinch of sugar, while in the Pacific Northwest, apple cider vinegar and honey are common. Some Midwestern families add a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
How are quick pickled onions traditionally served in American households?
They are typically served chilled as a topping for burgers, hot dogs, tacos, and salads, or alongside cheese boards. A small spoonful adds a bright, acidic contrast to rich or fatty dishes.
What occasions or celebrations are pickled onions associated with in American culture?
Pickled onions appear at backyard barbecues, picnics, and holiday meals such as Thanksgiving, where they add a fresh bite to turkey sandwiches and salads. They are also a common garnish for festive taco bars.
How does the quick pickled onions recipe fit into the broader American condiment tradition?
It follows the classic American approach of using vinegar, sugar, and salt to preserve vegetables quickly, similar to relish or pickled cucumbers. The method emphasizes speed and simplicity, making it a modern twist on a historic preservation technique.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for pickled onions versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditional pickled onions use white or apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and sometimes peppercorns. Acceptable substitutes include grape vinegar, honey instead of sugar, or a splash of lemon juice for extra acidity.
What other American dishes pair well with quick pickled onions?
They pair beautifully with pulled pork sandwiches, fried chicken, chili, coleslaw, grain bowls, and even pizza for a tangy crunch.
What makes quick pickled onions special or unique in American cuisine?
Their bright pink color, crisp texture, and balanced sweet‑sour flavor make them a versatile garnish that can instantly elevate everyday dishes without long fermentation times.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making quick pickled onions?
Common errors include not fully dissolving the sugar and salt, using cold water for the brine, and sealing the jar before the onions are fully submerged, which can lead to uneven pickling.
Can I make quick pickled onions ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes, you can prepare them up to a week in advance. After the 7‑hour room‑temperature rest, keep the sealed jar in the refrigerator; they stay fresh for about two weeks.
What does the YouTube channel YumMakers specialize in?
The YouTube channel YumMakers focuses on simple, fast, and budget‑friendly home cooking tutorials, often highlighting quick pantry tricks and easy-to‑follow recipes for everyday meals.
Last updated: August 29, 2026
