Onion Pickles

Prep: 120 min Cook: 8 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

Tangy, sweet onion pickles with a hint of spices, perfect as a condiment or side for sandwiches, burgers, or charcuterie boards, offering a crisp, flavorful bite.

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Ingredients

  • 6 lb. onions
  • 1/2 c. salt
  • crushed ice
  • 5 c. sugar
  • 5 c. white vinegar
  • 2 tsp. celery salt
  • 1 tsp. dry mustard
  • 2 tsp. turmeric

Instructions

  1. Slice the onions.
  2. Layer onions, salt, and crushed ice in three layers in a large bowl or container.
  3. Let stand for 2 hours.
  4. Squeeze the onions hard to remove ice, salt, and water.
  5. Do not wash the onions after squeezing.
  6. Mix thoroughly the sugar, vinegar, and spices (celery salt, dry mustard, turmeric).
  7. Bring the mixture to a hard boil, then add the prepared onions.
  8. Bring the mixture to a hard boil again and cook for 3 minutes.
  9. Pour the hot pickles into sterilized hot jars and seal immediately.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance flavor, consider using red onions for a sweeter profile. If you prefer a milder taste, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 30 minutes before layering. For a spicier kick, add a few crushed red pepper flakes to the vinegar mixture. Ensure the jars are sterilized properly to extend shelf life.

Serving Suggestions

These onion pickles are fantastic on sandwiches or as a topping for grilled meats. They pair beautifully with Southern Caviar or can be served alongside a charcuterie board for added zing. Consider using them to enhance salads or as a garnish for cocktails like Gin Daisies.

Storage & Reheating

Store the pickles in a cool, dark place for optimal flavor development. Once opened, keep them in the refrigerator where they can last for several weeks. For the best texture, consume them within a month. They are great as a snack or side dish straight from the jar.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Onion Pickles contains roughly 1241 calories, with 31g protein, 216g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (197% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1744mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).

1241 kcal 62% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 30.5g 61% DV
Total Fat 35.9g 46% DV
Carbs 216g 79% DV
Fiber 55.3g 100% DV
Sugar 24.6g 49% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1744.1mg 76% DV
Potassium 5000mg 100% DV
Cholesterol 0.5mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 87.2mcg 10% DV
Vitamin C 26mg 29% DV
Calcium 539.9mg 42% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do these pickles last?

When sealed properly, these pickles can last for up to a year if stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep them refrigerated and consume within a month for the best quality.

Can I use other types of onions?

Yes, you can use different types of onions such as red or sweet onions for varied flavors. Each type will impart its unique taste, so feel free to experiment with your favorites.

What can I do with leftover pickling liquid?

The leftover pickling liquid can be reused to pickle other vegetables, such as cucumbers or carrots. You can also use it as a tangy dressing for salads or to add flavor to marinades.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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