Are you a fan of tangy, zesty flavors that add a delightful punch to your dishes? If so, then Mexican pickled onions are a must-try condiment for you.
These vibrant and colorful onions, also known as “escabeche,” can be found in numerous Mexican recipes and are a fantastic way to add a burst of flavor to tacos, sandwiches, salads, and more.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of making Mexican pickled onions from scratch, allowing you to enjoy this tangy delight in your own kitchen.
How to Make Mexican Pickled Onions
The process begins with preparing the onions by thinly slicing them. Next, a pickling liquid is prepared using a combination of lime juice, white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, peppercorns, and bay leaves.
The onions are then combined with the pickling liquid and left to absorb the flavors for about an hour. Afterward, the mixture is transferred to a jar, sealed, and refrigerated for at least 24 hours to allow the onions to pickle.
Finally, the pickled onions can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks and enjoyed as a zesty topping for various Mexican dishes.
Ingredients Required
To make Mexican pickled onions, you will need the following ingredients:
- Red onions: 2 medium-sized
- Lime juice: 3/4 cup
- White vinegar: 1/4 cup
- Water: 1/4 cup
- Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Whole black peppercorns: 1 teaspoon
- Bay leaves: 2
Step-by-Step Guide on Making Mexican Pickled Onions
Step 1: Preparing the Onions
Start by peeling the red onions and cutting off the ends. Cut the onions in half from top to bottom, and then thinly slice them horizontally. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for precise and uniform slices. Place the sliced onions in a bowl and set them aside.
Step 2: Making the Pickling Liquid
In a small saucepan, combine the lime juice, white vinegar, water, sugar, salt, whole black peppercorns, and bay leaves. Gently stir the mixture to dissolve the sugar and salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the flavors meld together. Once the sugar and salt have completely dissolved, remove the pickling liquid from the heat.
Step 3: Combining the Onions and the Pickling Liquid
Pour the hot pickling liquid over the sliced onions in the bowl. Ensure that the onions are completely submerged in the liquid. The acidic nature of the pickling liquid will help soften the onions and infuse them with flavor. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 1 hour. This allows the onions to absorb the flavors of the pickling liquid.
Step 4: Allowing the Onions to Pickle
After an hour, transfer the onion slices along with the pickling liquid into a clean, airtight jar or container. Make sure the onions are tightly packed and fully submerged in the liquid. This will prevent any exposure to air, ensuring proper pickling. Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate it for at least 24 hours, or preferably up to 48 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld together, and the onions will become pickled, tangy, and crisp.
Step 5: Storing and Serving the Pickled Onions
Once the pickled onions have reached the desired level of tanginess and flavor, they are ready to be enjoyed. You can store the pickled onions in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
The longer they sit in the pickling liquid, the more pronounced their flavors will become. Serve them as a topping for tacos, sandwiches, nachos, or salads, or use them as a side accompaniment to your favorite Mexican dishes.
Tips and Variations
- Here are some variations on the recipe:
- For a sweeter pickled onion, add 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the lime juice and vinegar mixture.
- For a spicier pickled onion, add more jalapeno pepper or red pepper flakes.
- For a more herbaceous pickled onion, add a tablespoon of chopped cilantro.
- For a pickled carrot and radish salad, add thinly sliced carrots and radishes to the pickled onion mixture.
- For a milder flavor, you can soak the sliced onions in ice water for 10-15 minutes before pickling them. This helps reduce the sharpness of the onions.
- Experiment with different vinegars such as apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar to add unique flavors to your pickled onions.
- Customize the pickled onions by adding spices like dried chili flakes, garlic cloves, or oregano for an extra kick. Feel free to get creative and personalize the flavors to suit your taste preferences.
Health Benefits of Mexican Pickled Onions
Apart from their mouthwatering taste, Mexican pickled onions also offer several health benefits.
Onions are rich in antioxidants and contain essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber. Additionally, the pickling process increases the bioavailability of these nutrients.
The probiotics produced during fermentation can also contribute to a healthy gut microbiome.
So, not only do pickled onions enhance the flavor of your meals, but they also provide a nutritional boost.
Final Thoughts
Making your own Mexican pickled onions is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to elevate your culinary creations with a burst of flavor.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can create tangy and vibrant pickled onions that will enhance the taste of your favorite Mexican dishes.
Get creative with your combinations, experiment with flavors, and enjoy the versatility and zing of homemade Mexican pickled onions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use white onions instead of red onions for pickling? Absolutely! While red onions are commonly used for their vibrant color and milder flavor, you can use white onions if you prefer their sharper taste. The choice of onion variety depends on your personal preference.
2. How long should I let the pickled onions sit before using them? For optimal flavor, allow the pickled onions to sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours. However, you can taste them earlier if desired. The longer they pickle, the more intense their flavor will become.
3. Can I reuse the pickling liquid for another batch of onions? Yes, you can reuse the pickling liquid for another batch of onions. Simply strain the liquid to remove any onion residue and heat it before pouring it over the fresh onions. This will ensure proper sterilization and flavor infusion.
4. Are pickled onions spicy? By default, Mexican pickled onions are not spicy. However, you can add dried chili flakes or other spices to make them spicier according to your preference. Adjust the amount of spices to achieve your desired level of heat.
5. Can I pickle other vegetables using this recipe? Absolutely! This recipe works well with various vegetables like carrots, jalapenos, and radishes. Feel free to experiment and create your own pickled vegetable medley. The pickling liquid and process remain the same; you only need to adjust the vegetable quantities and slicing techniques.
Remember, making Mexican pickled onions is a delightful culinary adventure that lets you infuse your dishes with a tangy and zesty flair. Enjoy the process, experiment with flavors, and savor the results!
