Quick Tangy Pickled Onions
Quick Tangy Pickled Onions fit nicely in the world of whole food, plant-based diets, where vibrant colors and diverse flavors take center stage. This humble yet mighty ingredient that deserves a spotlight of its own. It is a tangy, colorful condiment not only elevates the taste of your dishes but
Post Date: April 23, 2024
Posted by: Donna SpencerThis post may contain affiliate links. Read my full disclosure here.
also pack a punch of health benefits that perfectly complement your plant-based lifestyle.
At the heart of a plant-based diet lies the simplicity of whole, unprocessed foods. Pickled onions embody this essence perfectly. Made simply from onions, vinegar, and a touch of seasonings, they steer clear of the artificial additives and preservatives often found in store bought pickled foods. This simplicity ensures that every tangy bite is bursting with pure, natural goodness. They are also fun to make!
Nutritional Powerhouse
Despite their unassuming appearance, pickled onions boast an impressive array of health benefits. Onions are rich in antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which has been linked to reduced inflammation and improved heart health. When pickled, these antioxidants are preserved, ensuring you reap their full benefits with every serving.
Fermented foods like pickled onions are renowned for their positive impact on gut health. Through the fermentation process, beneficial probiotics are produced, promoting a healthy balance of gut bacteria. A happy gut translates to better digestion, enhanced nutrient absorption, and even a bolstered immune system—essential components of overall well-being.
It’s worth noting that while pickled onions can offer health benefits, they are often high in sodium due to the pickling process. Therefore, moderation is key, especially for individuals who need to limit their sodium intake. Additionally, commercially prepared pickled onions may contain added sugars or preservatives, so homemade versions using natural ingredients may be preferable for maximizing health benefits.
Elevating Flavor Profiles
In the realm of plant-based cuisine, flavor reigns supreme. Pickled onions bring a delightful tanginess and crunch to any dish they grace. Whether scattered atop salads, tucked into sandwiches, or served as a zesty garnish bowls and my tasty eggplant tacos, their versatility knows no bounds. With just a few spoonfuls, you can transform an ordinary meal into a culinary masterpiece, tantalizing taste buds with every bite.
Crafting Your Own Culinary Creations
One of the joys of a plant-based diet is the opportunity for creativity in the kitchen. Making your own pickled onions is a simple and rewarding endeavor. With little more than onions, vinegar, water, and your favorite seasonings, you can concoct batches of homemade pickled perfection, customized to suit your taste preferences and nutritional needs and goals.
In the world of whole food, plant-based eating, pickled onions stand as a shining example of simplicity, flavor, and nutritional excellence. Whether you’re looking to add a zesty twist to your meals or harness the health benefits of fermented foods, these humble condiments have you covered. So, embrace the tangy goodness of pickled onions and let them become a cherished staple in your plant-based culinary repertoire. Your taste buds—and your body—will thank you.
Grocery List
Produce
onions
Pantry
red wine vinegar
agave or honey
dried onions flakes optional
yellow mustard seed optional
brown mustard seed
dried minced garlic
fennel seed
ground pepper or peppercorns
bay leaf
Misc
water
salt
Add-Ins and Substitutions
Add other spices such as:
- Coriander seeds adds a citrusy, slightly floral flavor to pickling brine.
- Dill is a classic pickling herb that lends a fresh, herbaceous flavor to pickles.
- Celery seeds give a slightly bitter and earthy flavor with hints of celery and parsley.
- Whole cloves contributes a warm, spicy flavor with hints of sweetness. A little goes a long way.
- Allspice berries add a flavor reminiscent of a combination of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. They add complexity and warmth to pickling spices.
- Red pepper flakes can be added to the pickling brine to provide heat and a kick of flavor.
- Juniper berries have a piney, slightly citrusy flavor that can add an interesting twist to pickled vegetables, particularly when pickling beets or cabbage.
- Ginger adds a spicy, aromatic flavor to pickling brine and can complement the flavors of pickled fruits and vegetables.
Storing
Store these in an airtight container for up to three days. After five days they tend to dry out. These cookies freeze very well if you will not be eating them within a few days.
Nutrition 411
Onions are a highly nutritious vegetable that have several benefits, including improved heart health, better blood sugar regulation, and increased bone density. Antioxidants are compounds that inhibit oxidation, a process that may lead to cellular damage and contribute to diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Not only are onions are an excellent source of antioxidants and probiotics, they contain at least 17 types of flavonoids.
Quick Tangy Pickled Onions
Equipment
- Medium Saucepan
- Sterilized Glass Jar (preferred)
Ingredients
- 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup red wine vinegar or white distilled vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tbsps. agave or honey
- 2 tbsps. Ruby Red Onion California Balsamic optional
- 1 tbsp. dried onions flakes optional
- 1 tsp. yellow mustard seed optional
- 1/2 tsp brown mustard seed
- 1/2 tsp dried minced garlic or 1 garlic clove
- 1/2 tsp fennel seed
- 1/2 tsp ground pepper or peppercorns
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Using a mandoline, thinly slice onion to reach about 1 cup.
- Combine all ingredients except onions in a small saucepan. bring to a boil, and lower heat to a simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add onions to pickling liquid and turn off heat. Let stand for 20 mnutes or longer. The longer they sit in the pickling liquid, the less crunchier they will be.
- Remove from liquid and chill until ready for use.
Notes
More Onion PF Recipes
Eggplant Tacos
Carabaccia – Tuscan Red Onion WFPB Soup
Healthy Baked Vegan Spinach Artichoke Dip WFPB No Oil No Eggs
Italian White Beans and Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce (WFPB Dairy-Free No Oil)
Lenticchie con Cavolo Nero (Braised Lentils and Kale)
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