Tool

• Small pot

• Mandoline (optional)

• Mason jar

Ingredients

For the Pickled Onions:

• 1 medium red onion

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 1 cup vinegar (distilled white, red wine, or apple cider)

Optional Seasonings:

• 1 garlic clove, peeled and smashed

• ½ teaspoon whole black peppercorns

• 1 bay leaf

Direction

1. Thinly slice the red onion into circles or thin strips. Place in a quart‑sized mason jar (or divide between two pint jars).

2. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, salt, vinegar, and 1 cup water. Bring to a simmer over medium‑high heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar and salt. Add optional seasonings if using.

3. Pour the hot mixture over the onions. Let cool at room temperature for about 1 hour.

4. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 1 week. (Best flavor develops overnight.)

Notes

• Check your onions: Avoid onions with soft spots, mold, or mildew.

• Add citrus: Replace up to ¼ cup of vinegar with lime or lemon juice, or add citrus zest.

• Customize: Add pickling spices, cumin, fennel, mustard seeds, fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, dill), dried chili, or red pepper flakes.

• Different sweetener: Maple syrup or honey works great instead of sugar.

Nutrition

Calories: 6 • Carbs: 1g • Protein: 0.1g • Fat: 0.01g • Saturated Fat: 0.003g • Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.002g • Monounsaturated Fat: 0.001g • Sodium: 194mg • Potassium: 9mg • Fiber: 0.1g • Sugar: 1g • Vitamin A: 1IU • Vitamin C: 0.4mg • Calcium: 2mg • Iron: 0.03mg