This easy pickled onions recipe from Gordon Ramsay is a quick way to add zing to your meals! With just a few simple ingredients like red onions, vinegar, and sugar, you’ll get crunchy, tangy goodness.
Perfect on burgers, sandwiches, or salads, these little gems bring a pop of color and flavor! I love having them ready to spice up any dish. Plus, they make you feel like a fancy chef without the fuss! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Onions: These are key for their beautiful color and sweet flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use white onions, but they won’t have the same vibrant hue.
Vinegar: White vinegar works best, but you can also try apple cider vinegar for a different taste. Just keep in mind that it will slightly change the flavor profile.
Sugar: I find that regular granulated sugar does the job perfectly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use honey or agave syrup, but it will alter the sweetness slightly.
Salt: Sea salt is my go-to for pickling, but table salt works too. Just avoid any flavored salts, as they can change the taste.
How Do You Ensure Your Pickled Onions Stay Crunchy?
Keeping your pickled onions crunchy is easy, but you need to follow a few tips. First, make sure to slice them thinly and evenly. This helps them pickle uniformly and maintain their bite.
- Use a sharp knife or mandolin for consistent thickness.
- Avoid boiling the pickling liquid; just warm it gently until the sugar and salt dissolve.
- Once you pour the liquid over the onions, make sure they’re fully submerged to prevent air pockets.
- Refrigerate them in a sealed jar to keep them crisp and fresh!
Easy Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large red onions, peeled and thinly sliced
- 250 ml (1 cup) white vinegar
- 250 ml (1 cup) water
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp salt
- Optional: 1 tsp black peppercorns or mustard seeds for added flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, but you’ll want to let the onions pickle for at least an hour in the refrigerator. For the best flavor, aim for 24 hours of chilling before serving. So, set aside a little time to enjoy those delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Onions:
Start by peeling the red onions and slicing them thinly. You can use a sharp knife or a mandolin for even slices. Then, place the sliced onions into a clean heatproof jar or bowl. This will be where the magic happens!
2. Make the Pickling Liquid:
In a saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Heat this mixture gently over low heat, stirring until the sugar and salt have completely dissolved. Be sure not to boil it—just warm it enough so everything blends nicely.
3. Flavor It Up:
If you want to take your pickled onions to the next level, now’s the time to add the optional black peppercorns or mustard seeds to the brine. This will give your onions an extra kick of flavor!
4. Combine and Cool:
Pour the warm pickling liquid over the onions, ensuring all the slices are submerged. This will help them pickle evenly. Let the mixture cool to room temperature for a bit—this makes it easier to store in the fridge.
5. Refrigerate:
Now it’s time to seal the jar or cover the bowl. Place your pickled onions in the refrigerator. They’ll need at least 1 hour to pickle, but letting them sit for 24 hours is ideal for the best flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
After your pickled onions have had time to chill, they are ready to use! Serve them as a bright, tangy condiment for salads, sandwiches, tacos, or grilled meats. Enjoy the crunch and flavor they add to your dishes!
This simple recipe gives you delicious, vibrant pink pickled onions that will impress your family and friends—just like Gordon Ramsay would! Happy cooking!
FAQ about Easy Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions
Can I Use Yellow Onions Instead of Red Onions?
Yes, you can use yellow onions, but keep in mind they won’t have the same vibrant color. The flavor will also be slightly different—yellow onions tend to be a bit stronger, while red onions offer a milder and sweeter taste.
How Long Do Pickled Onions Last in the Fridge?
Once pickled and stored in an airtight container, your pickled onions can last up to 2-4 weeks in the refrigerator! Just make sure they remain submerged in the brine for best preservation.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Pickling Liquid?
Absolutely! If you prefer sweeter pickled onions, simply add more sugar to the brine according to your taste. Just remember to keep the balance intact for flavor; you can also experiment with honey or maple syrup as alternatives!
What Dishes Pair Well with Pickled Onions?
Pickled onions pair well with a variety of dishes! They add a tangy crunch to salads, tacos, burgers, and grilled meats. They also brighten up sandwiches and wraps. Get creative and enjoy their versatility!
