Hot Honey Pickled Red Onions Recipe
Introduction
Hot honey pickled red onions add a perfect balance of sweet heat and tangy crunch to any dish. They are quick to prepare and can elevate tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more with bold, vibrant flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, honey, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 2: Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Step 3: Place the sliced red onions in a jar or container.
- Step 4: Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the onions, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Step 5: Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then seal the jar and refrigerate.
- Step 6: Allow the onions to pickle for at least 24 hours before using for the best flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For extra heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a sliced fresh chili.
- Try substituting honey with maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
- Use a mandoline to slice onions thinly and evenly for quick pickling.
Storage
Store the pickled onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 weeks. Always use clean utensils to prevent contamination. Reheat is not necessary; they are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar?
Yes, white vinegar can be used, but apple cider vinegar provides a milder, fruitier flavor that complements the honey and onions better.
How long do the pickled onions last?
They generally last up to 2 weeks refrigerated. The flavor will intensify over time, making them more robust and delicious.
PrintHot Honey Pickled Red Onions Recipe
Hot Honey Pickled Red Onions bring a sweet, tangy, and spicy kick to any dish. These vibrant onions are thinly sliced and soaked in a warm mixture of apple cider vinegar, honey, and chili flakes, perfect for elevating tacos, sandwiches, salads, and more with a burst of flavorful zest.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 day 15 minutes
- Yield: About 1 jar (serves 8 as a condiment) 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pickling Liquid
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Pickling Liquid: In a saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, honey, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. This forms the flavorful pickling base that will infuse the onions.
- Heat the Mixture: Warm the combined ingredients over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture starts to simmer. This helps to dissolve the honey and salt, releasing aromatic flavors from the spices.
- Slice the Onions: While the liquid heats, thinly slice the red onion to create tender strips that will absorb the pickling liquid efficiently.
- Combine Onions and Liquid: Place the sliced onions into a jar or suitable container and pour the hot vinegar mixture over them, ensuring the onions are fully submerged to maximize pickling.
- Cool and Seal: Allow the jar to cool to room temperature before sealing it to avoid condensation and maintain the best texture.
- Refrigerate and Pickle: Refrigerate the sealed jar for at least 24 hours to let the flavors meld and the onions soften. For optimal taste, wait longer if possible before serving.
Notes
- You can adjust the heat level by varying the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference.
- Use a clean, airtight jar to store the pickled onions to maximize shelf life and maintain freshness.
- These pickled onions keep well refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
- If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the honey slightly or substitute with maple syrup for a different flavor.
- Enjoy them as toppings on burgers, tacos, salads, grilled meats, or as a zesty side condiment.
Keywords: pickled red onions, hot honey, spicy pickled onions, easy pickled onions, condiment, sweet and spicy onions
