Easy BBQ Pickled Red Onions Recipe

Curious how to elevate your BBQ to celebrity chef levels? Enter the game-changer: BBQ pickled red onions. Imagine the zesty crunch of pickled onions meeting the deep, smoky flavors of your favorite barbecue dishes. Perfectly simple to whip up, these vibrant, tangy slivers can transform burgers, tacos, and even grilled veggies into mouthwatering masterpieces. Ready to give your meals a colorful and flavorful boost? Grab some red onions, vinegar, and let’s pickle—your BBQ will never be the same!

What are BBQ Pickled Red Onions?

BBQ pickled red onions are the unsung heroes of the cookout. These are thinly sliced red onions that have been quick-pickled in a mixture of vinegar, water, sugar, and salt, often with a touch of spices like garlic and peppercorns. The result? Onions that are both tangy and sweet, with a satisfying crunch that cuts through the richness of traditional BBQ dishes.

They’re incredibly versatile, adding a bright pop of flavor and color to everything from pulled pork sandwiches to grilled burgers. Beyond just barbecues, these onions can jazz up salads, top off tacos, or even enhance a cheese board. If you haven’t tried them yet, you’re missing out on a simple way to make your meals more vibrant and exciting.

Best BBQ Pickled Red Onions Recipe

Perfect for those looking to add a quick and colorful upgrade to their meals, these onions keep well and are versatile enough to complement a wide range of dishes, from BBQ staples to everyday sandwiches. With minimal preparation time and simple ingredients, they offer a zesty twist that’s both delicious and visually appealing, making every bite a little more exciting.

Easy BBQ Pickled Red Onions Recipe

Recipe by bbqpartyzone.comCourse: CondimentCuisine: American BBQDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

5

minutes

Calories

100

kcal

Total time

15

minutes

BBQ pickled red onions are a culinary delight that can transform any ordinary meal into something extraordinary. This easy recipe combines the sharpness of red onions with a tangy brine, enhancing dishes with its bright, crisp flavors.

Ingredients

• Red onions, 2 large

• Apple cider vinegar, 1 cup

• Water, 1 cup

• Sugar, 1 tablespoon

• Salt, 2 teaspoons

• Peppercorns, 1 teaspoon

• Garlic cloves, 2 (peeled)

• Bay leaf, 1

Directions

• Thinly slice the red onions.
• In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Add garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaf.
• Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until sugar and salt dissolve.
• Place onions in a jar and pour the hot vinegar mixture over them, ensuring they are submerged.
• Allow to cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate.

Notes

• For an extra flavor twist, add a slice of beet to the jar. It gives the onions a vibrant pink hue and a subtle earthy taste, making them not only tastier but also a visual delight!

How Long Do Pickled Red Onions Last in a Jar?

When it comes to extending the life of your vibrant BBQ pickled red onions, proper storage is key. Typically, these tangy delights can last in your refrigerator for up to three weeks when kept in an airtight jar. The longevity comes from the acidity of the vinegar-based brine, which acts as a natural preservative, keeping the onions crisp and flavorful.

To ensure maximum freshness, make sure the onions are fully submerged in the brine and use a clean spoon each time you serve them. This prevents contamination and helps maintain their zesty flavor.

Whether you’re tossing them on a taco or brightening up a burger, pickled red onions stored this way will keep adding that special kick to your dishes for weeks.

What Are Pickled Red Onions Good On?

Pickled red onions are an incredibly versatile condiment that can elevate a wide variety of dishes with their vibrant color and zesty flavor.

Here’s a list of where they really shine:

1. Tacos: Their acidity cuts through the richness of meats like pork or fish.
2. Burgers and Sandwiches: Adds a crunchy, vinegary contrast.
3. Salads: Both green and grain-based salads are perked up by their flavor.
4. Rice Bowls: Brings a refreshing zing to hearty bowls.
5. Avocado Toast: Elevates this simple dish with a burst of color and taste.
6. Pizzas: A non-traditional topping that offers a sweet and sour kick.
7. Cheese Platters: Provides a palate-cleansing effect alongside rich cheeses.

For BBQ enthusiasts, adding them to pulled pork or grilled meats can introduce a delightful twist. Even simple dishes like rice or avocado toast can be enhanced with a topping of pickled red onions, making them a must-have in any kitchen.

Conclusion

In conclusion, BBQ pickled red onions are a simple yet impactful addition to any culinary repertoire. With their vibrant color and bright, tangy flavor, they effortlessly enhance a variety of dishes from casual to gourmet. Whether incorporated into traditional BBQ, thrown onto a taco, or used as a lively garnish on a rice bowl, these onions provide a delightful crunch and a burst of acidity that balances richer flavors.

Easy to prepare and lasting up to three weeks in the fridge, they are both convenient and cost-effective. As we’ve explored their versatility, it’s clear that having a jar on hand opens up endless possibilities for elevating everyday meals. Try incorporating BBQ pickled red onions into your next dish and watch it transform with just a simple addition of this zesty condiment.