Mexican Pickled Onions

Recipe

Mexican Pickled Onions

Zesty Fiesta Onions: A Tangy Twist to Mexican Cuisine

This recipe for Mexican Pickled Onions, known as Escabeche de cebolla, is a vibrant and tangy condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any Mexican dish. These zesty onions are a staple in Mexican cuisine, providing a refreshing and crunchy element to tacos, burritos, and more.

Jan Dec

10 minutes

5 minutes

15 minutes (plus marinating time)

4 servings

Easy

Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Low calorie

N/A

Paleo, Keto, Nut-free, Soy-free, Egg-free

Ingredients

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 45 kcal / 188 KJ
  • Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 11g, 7g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Salt: 590mg

Preparation

  1. 1.
    In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, lime juice, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, dried oregano, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
  2. 2.
    Place the thinly sliced red onions in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the onions, ensuring they are fully submerged.
  3. 3.
    Let the onions cool to room temperature, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. 4.
    Once fully pickled, the onions can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Red onions — Make sure to slice the onions thinly for optimal pickling. If you prefer a milder flavor, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes before pickling.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a spicier kick, add a sliced jalapeño or chili pepper to the pickling mixture.
  • Experiment with different vinegars such as apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for unique flavor variations.
  • These pickled onions are not only delicious in Mexican dishes but also make a fantastic addition to sandwiches, salads, and grilled meats.
  • To enhance the visual appeal, use a mandoline slicer to achieve uniformly thin onion slices.
  • If you prefer a sweeter taste, increase the amount of sugar in the pickling mixture.

Serving advice

Serve Mexican Pickled Onions as a condiment alongside tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or grilled meats. They also make a colorful and tangy addition to salads, sandwiches, and nachos.

Presentation advice

Arrange the vibrant pink pickled onions in a small bowl or jar, allowing their beautiful color to shine. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro or a lime wedge for an extra touch of freshness.