Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
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Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
Gordon Ramsay’s Super Easy Pickled Onions is the ultimate quick condiment, made from scratch with just a handful of pantry staples. This crisp, tangy relish transforms in minutes and offers that signature vinegar punch we all crave. It’s ready in little over an hour, requires no canning, and is the perfect bright topping for everything from tacos to grain bowls.
I have a profound affection for quick pickled onions. They are my secret weapon for adding a layer of complexity and brightness to so many dishes. I first started making them years ago to cut through the richness of my favorite smothered chicken and rice, and they’ve been a staple in my refrigerator ever since. I love how a single jar can elevate a simple weeknight meal into something special, providing that perfect acidic counterpoint to savory mains.
This version, inspired by Gordon Ramsay’s straightforward approach, is particularly dear to me. The simplicity allows the ingredients to sing, and I find the ritual of preparing them to be a small, mindful pleasure. I often make a batch while my roasted fingerling potatoes are in the oven, knowing they’ll be the perfect companion.
What Makes These Pickled Onions Irresistible
- Instant Flavor Upgrade: They add a professional, tangy kick to any dish in seconds.
- Effortless Preparation: This quick pickled onions recipe requires just 10 minutes of active time.
- Versatile Condiment: A jar of homemade pickled onions pairs with countless meals.
- Crowd-Pleasing Zing: Their bright, acidic flavor is a guaranteed hit with family and friends.
Ingredients for Perfect Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions
Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full listing of ingredients, instructions, notes, and estimated nutritional information.
- White Vinegar: Provides the sharp, clean acidity that is the backbone of the brine.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a slightly fruity, complex note to balance the sharpness.
- Sugar: A small amount is essential to round out the harshness of the vinegar.
- Kosher Salt: Use this for its pure, clean flavor without additives.
- Black Peppercorns: They infuse the brine with a gentle, earthy warmth.
- Bay Leaf: A single small leaf contributes an subtle, herbal aroma.
- Red Onion: Its natural sweetness and beautiful color make it ideal for pickling.
Gordon Ramsay’s Super Easy Pickled Onions
Gordon Ramsay’s Super Easy Pickled Onions recipe makes tangy, crisp pickled onions in just 1 hour. Perfect quick condiment using red onions, vinegar, and simple brine.
Equipment
- small saucepan
- whisk
- knife
- cutting board
- heat-safe glass jar or bowl
- spoon
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 small bay leaf
- 1 medium red onion very thinly sliced
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, peppercorns, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally with a whisk, just until the sugar and salt fully dissolve, about 2 minutes.
- While the brine is heating, use a sharp knife to trim the ends off the red onion and then slice it into very thin half-moon strips. This allows the brine to penetrate quickly for maximum flavor.
- Place the sliced onions into a clean, heat-safe glass jar or bowl. The glass will not react with the acidic liquid.
- Carefully pour the hot brine directly over the onions in the jar, ensuring all the peppercorns and the bay leaf are included.
- Use a spoon to gently press the onions down so they are fully submerged in the liquid. Let the mixture cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
- Once cooled, secure a lid on the jar and transfer it to the refrigerator. The onions will be ready to eat in about 1 hour, but their flavor and color will deepen and improve over 24 hours.
Notes
The onions will be ready to eat in about 1 hour, but their flavor and color will deepen and improve over 24 hours.
Creative Ways to Customize Your Pickles
- Spicy Kick: Add a few thin slices of jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the jar.
- Herbal Notes: Toss in a few sprigs of fresh dill, thyme, or a teaspoon of dried herbs.
- Sweet and Spicy: Swap the sugar for honey or maple syrup for a deeper flavor profile.
My Pro Tips for Pickling Perfection
- Slice Consistently Thin: Use a mandoline or a very sharp knife for uniform half-moon strips that pickle evenly. This ensures every piece absorbs the brine perfectly.
- Dissolve Completely: Gently heat and whisk the brine mixture until not a grain of sugar or salt remains. This is the secret to a balanced, clear liquid.
- Submerge Fully: Press the onions down with a spoon so they are completely covered by the hot brine. This prevents discoloration and ensures even pickling.
- Patience is a Virtue: While they are quick pickled onions, allowing them to rest for a full 24 hours deepens their color and flavor immensely, making them worth the wait.
Storing Your Homemade Pickled Onions
- Store: Keep your refrigerator pickles in their airtight glass jar in the fridge. They will stay crisp and delicious for up to 3 weeks.
- Freeze: Freezing is not recommended for this easy pickle recipe, as it will drastically alter the texture of the onions, making them mushy.
- Make-Ahead Tip: This is the ultimate make-ahead condiment. Whip up a double batch at the start of the week to have on hand for topping quick chili or salads.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do quick pickled onions last?
When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your quick pickled onions will last for up to 3 weeks. Their flavor will remain bright and tangy, though they may soften slightly after the first week.
Can I use white onion instead of red onion?
Yes, you can use a white or yellow onion, but the result will be different. Red onions are preferred for their mild sweetness and vibrant pink hue that develops in the brine, which you won’t get with other varieties.
Why are my pickled onions not pink?
The beautiful pink color comes from the anthocyanins in the red onion reacting with the acid in the vinegar. If your onions aren’t turning pink, be patient. The color continues to develop over the first 24 hours as they marinate in the fridge.
Do you have to boil vinegar for pickling?
For quick pickling methods like this one, gently heating the brine is essential. It helps the sugar and salt dissolve completely and allows the flavors of the peppercorns and bay leaf to meld, resulting in a more balanced and infused final product.
More Easy Condiment Recipes to Try
Why This Pickled Onions Recipe Wins
With its crisp texture and perfectly balanced sweet-tangy flavor, Gordon Ramsay’s Super Easy Pickled Onions are a must-have condiment. This recipe proves that incredible flavor doesn’t require complicated techniques or hours of work. I hope this becomes your new go-to for adding a bright, professional touch to your meals.
