Crispy and Delicious Pickled Onions
Crispy and Delicious Pickled Onions
Recipe for Making Sweet and Tangy Pickled Onions
When you find yourself with an abundance of onions, make a delicious side dish that will keep your refrigerator well-stocked! Especially firm and fresh onions are perfect for making pickles, yielding an exceptional flavor. I’ll share the method for making crispy pickled onions, perfect as a side dish for rice, or to add to bibimbap and salads, just as I learned from my mother.
Pickle Ingredients- 10 medium-sized onions
- 1 Cheongyang chili pepper
- 1 red chili pepper
- 2 cups (400ml) soy sauce
- 1 cup (200ml) vinegar
- 1 cup (200ml) sugar
- 4 cups (800ml) water
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, we’ll make the flavorful brine that determines the taste of the pickles. In a pot, combine 2 cups of soy sauce, 1 cup of vinegar, 1 cup of sugar, and 4 cups of water. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, allowing the ingredients to meld together.
Step 2
Once the brine is boiling vigorously, turn off the heat. Let the pot sit for a while to allow the steam to escape and the brine to cool down completely. It’s crucial to let the brine cool completely to maintain the crispiness of the onions; pouring hot brine can make them mushy.
Step 3
Now it’s time to prepare the main ingredient, the onions. Peel the onions cleanly and slice them into thick rings. Slicing them this way, rather than dicing, makes them look more appealing and helps them stay crispy for a longer period while allowing the brine to penetrate evenly.
Step 4
Place the thickly sliced onions into a clean, airtight glass container. Avoid packing them too tightly; leave some space between the slices for better brining.
Step 5
To add a touch of spice and vibrant color, prepare the chili peppers. Remove the seeds from the Cheongyang chili and red chili peppers and slice them thinly into julienne strips. Tuck these chili strips in between the onion rings. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a richer flavor.
Step 6
Once all the onions and chili peppers are sliced and neatly arranged in the container, you’re ready for the next step.
Step 7
Pour the completely cooled brine evenly over the onions and chili peppers in the container. Ensure the brine completely submerges the ingredients so the flavors infuse uniformly. This completes the basic preparation of your delicious pickled onions.
Step 8
Seal the container tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 days to let the flavors meld. After about a day, gently tilt the container to mix the brine or turn the onions and peppers over to ensure even pickling. They will be ready to enjoy after 2-3 days. Stored in the refrigerator, they will remain crispy and delicious for a long time.
