Fermented Red Onion Pickles

Pickling is not just a way to preserve your favorite vegetables but also a delicious method to enhance their flavors. In this delightful recipe, we’ll show you how to make Fermented Red Onion Pickles. These tangy and crisp pickles are perfect for adding a zesty kick to sandwiches, salads, or as a flavorful side dish. Fermented foods are known for their gut-friendly probiotics, making these pickles not only tasty but also a healthy addition to your meals.

Fermented Red Onion Pickles

Ingredients:
– 2 large red onions, thinly sliced
– 1 1/2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons sea salt
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
– 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 2-3 cloves garlic, smashed
– Fresh herbs (optional): dill, thyme, or bay leaves

Instructions:
1. In a clean glass jar, layer the thinly sliced red onions.

2. In a separate bowl, combine water, sea salt, and sugar. Stir until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved to create a brine.

3. Add black peppercorns, mustard seeds, red pepper flakes, and smashed garlic cloves to the jar with the onions.

4. Pour the brine over the onions, ensuring they are completely submerged. You can use a small plate or weight to keep the onions submerged.

5. If desired, add fresh herbs such as dill, thyme, or bay leaves to the jar for added flavor.

6. Cover the jar loosely with a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to allow air circulation.

7. Let the jar sit at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, for 3-5 days. Check the pickles daily and skim off any foam that may form on the surface.

8. After 3-5 days, taste the pickles. If they have reached your desired level of tanginess, transfer the jar to the refrigerator to slow down the fermentation process. The pickles will continue to develop flavor over time.

9. Enjoy your homemade Fermented Red Onion Pickles as a flavorful addition to sandwiches, salads, or as a tangy snack on their own.

By following this simple recipe, you can create your own batch of Fermented Red Onion Pickles that are bursting with flavor and gut-friendly probiotics. Feel free to customize the pickles with your favorite herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences. These pickles also make a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family who appreciate the art of fermentation.