Pioneer Woman’s Pickled Onions are a quick and easy way to add a burst of tangy flavor to your favorite dishes. These vibrant, crunchy onions are perfect for topping tacos, sandwiches, salads, and more. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform ordinary onions into a zesty condiment that will elevate your meals. Ready in just a few hours, these pickled onions are as versatile as they are delicious, making them a must-have in your kitchen.

What are Pioneer Woman Pickled Onions?

Pioneer Woman’s Pickled Onions are thinly sliced onions that are quickly pickled in a mixture of vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. The onions absorb the tangy brine, becoming both crisp and flavorful. This easy recipe is perfect for making a small batch of pickled onions that can be stored in the refrigerator and used to enhance a variety of dishes.

Other Pioneer Woman Recipes

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Quick and Easy: These pickled onions are ready in just a few hours and require minimal ingredients and effort.
Versatile: Perfect for adding to tacos, burgers, salads, sandwiches, and more.
Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, and tanginess, or add spices to suit your taste.

Long-Lasting: Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, making them a convenient, go-to condiment.
Burst of Flavor: Adds a tangy, crunchy element to any dish, instantly enhancing its flavor.

Ingredients Needed to Make Pioneer Woman Pickled Onions

1 large red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
1/2 cup of water
1 tablespoon of granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

1 teaspoon of salt
Optional add-ins: 1 clove of garlic (sliced), 1/2 teaspoon of peppercorns, 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, or a bay leaf

Equipment

Mason Jar or Glass Container: For storing the pickled onions.

Mixing Bowl: For preparing the brine.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients.
Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing the onions.

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Pickled Onions

Prepare the Onion: Peel the onion and slice it thinly into rings or half-moons. Place the sliced onions in a Mason jar or glass container.
Make the Brine: In a mixing bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved. If using any optional add-ins like garlic, peppercorns, or red pepper flakes, add them to the brine as well.
Pickle the Onions: Pour the brine over the sliced onions in the jar, making sure the onions are fully submerged in the liquid. If needed, use a spoon or fork to press the onions down into the brine.

Marinate: Seal the jar with a lid and let the onions sit at room temperature for about 1 hour. After that, refrigerate the onions for at least 1-2 hours before using. The onions will develop more flavor the longer they sit, so feel free to leave them in the refrigerator overnight.
Serve: Once the pickled onions are ready, they can be used to top tacos, sandwiches, salads, and more. Store any leftover onions in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Pickled Onions

Tacos: Add a tangy crunch to your tacos, whether they’re filled with meat, fish, or veggies.

Burgers: Use as a topping for burgers to add a zesty flavor and crisp texture.
Salads: Toss into green salads, potato salads, or grain bowls for an extra burst of flavor.
Sandwiches: Elevate deli sandwiches, grilled cheese, or wraps with these pickled onions.

Barbecue Dishes: Serve alongside pulled pork, brisket, or grilled chicken for a tangy contrast.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Pickled Onions

Use a Sharp Knife: Thinly slicing the onions ensures they pickle evenly and absorb the flavors quickly.
Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet pickling brine, reduce the sugar or omit it entirely.

Customize the Flavor: Add spices like peppercorns, red pepper flakes, or herbs to the brine to create your own unique flavor profile.
Let the Onions Marinate: For the best flavor, allow the onions to marinate in the refrigerator for at least a few hours before using.
Experiment with Different kinds of vinegar: Try using different types of vinegar, such as white vinegar, rice vinegar, or balsamic vinegar, for varying flavors.

Variations of Pioneer Woman Pickled Onions

Spicy Pickled Onions: Add red pepper flakes, sliced jalapeños, or crushed chili peppers to the brine for a spicy kick.
Garlic Pickled Onions: Add a clove or two of sliced garlic to the jar for a garlicky flavor.
Citrus Pickled Onions: Replace some of the water with fresh lime or lemon juice for a citrusy twist.

Herbed Pickled Onions: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill to the brine for a herby flavor.
Honey Pickled Onions: Substitute honey for sugar in the brine for a slightly different, natural sweetness.

Storing Pioneer Woman Pickled Onions: Best Practices

Refrigerate Properly: Store the pickled onions in a sealed jar or container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to two weeks.

Avoid Metal Lids: If using a Mason jar, opt for plastic lids or cover the jar with plastic wrap before sealing it with a metal lid to prevent any reaction with the vinegar.

How Can I Make Pioneer Woman Pickled Onions Healthier?

Reduce or Omit Sugar: To make the pickled onions healthier, you can reduce the amount of sugar or omit it entirely, depending on your taste preference.
Use Organic Vinegar: Opt for organic apple cider vinegar or white vinegar for a more natural option.

Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value by adding other vegetables like thinly sliced cucumbers, radishes, or carrots to the brine.
Use Sea Salt: Replace regular table salt with sea salt or Himalayan pink salt for added minerals.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

Calories: 15

Total Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 3g
Sugars: 2g

Protein: 0g

FAQs

How long do pickled onions take to pickle?

Pickled onions can be ready to eat in as little as 1-2 hours after being placed in the brine. However, for the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours. The longer they sit, the more intense the flavor will become.

Can I pick different types of onions together?

Yes, you can pick different types of onions together. Combining red onions, white onions, and even shallots can create a mix of flavors and colors in your pickled onions. Just slice them thinly and pickle them in the same brine.

Do I need to sterilize the jar before pickling onions?

While it’s not strictly necessary to sterilize the jar if you’re storing the pickled onions in the refrigerator and consuming them within two weeks, it’s a good practice to do so. Sterilizing the jar helps ensure that your pickled onions stay fresh and free from any bacteria.

Can I reuse the pickling brine for other vegetables?

Yes, you can reuse the pickling brine to pickle other vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, or radishes. Just make sure to store the brine in the refrigerator between uses, and be aware that the flavor may be slightly less potent with each reuse.

Final Words

Pioneer Woman’s Pickled Onions are a simple yet flavorful condiment that can elevate a wide range of dishes. With their tangy, crisp texture and bright color, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Other Yummy Recipes:

Pioneer Woman Pickled Eggs