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Homemade Pickled Onions

Recipe by B U R G E R F E C T I O N on InstagramAdded 8 August 2026.

5 minutes to prep, 5 to cook. These homemade pickled red onions add a bright, tangy crunch to burgers, sandwiches, or salads. The simple blend of apple cider vinegar, salt, and sugar creates a balanced flavor that pairs wonderfully with any dish. They keep well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

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Method

  1. Peel the onions, leaving the very driest, paper‑like skin layer intact.

  2. Slice the onions into thin circles and discard any broken pieces or very small circles.

  3. Place the onion slices and skins into a clean glass jar, leaving about 1‑2 cm of headspace.

  4. In a saucepan, combine the water, apple cider vinegar, heaped salt, and heaped sugar; bring to a simmer, stirring until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: Salt and sugar have dissolved into the simmering brine. Stir across the bottom of the pan as the crystals dissolve.

  5. Add the garlic cloves, bay leaves, peppercorns, and dill to the hot brine for extra flavor.

  6. Carefully pour the hot brine over the onions in the jar, ensuring the slices are fully submerged.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: Onion slices sit below the surface of the brine. Keep the slices submerged for even pickling.

  7. Allow the jar to cool to room temperature (about 20‑30 minutes), then seal tightly with the lid.

  8. Refrigerate the pickled onions for at least 2 hours before using; they keep well for up to two weeks.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: Onions are softened and tangy after chilling. Keep the jar refrigerated between uses.

  9. Enjoy the pickled onions as a tangy topping for burgers, sandwiches, salads, or tacos.

Tips while you cook

Cool Brine Before Sealing
Allow the hot brine to cool to room temperature (about 20‑30 minutes) before sealing the jar.
Fully Submerge Onions
Pour the brine carefully.
Use Heaped Salt and Sugar
Add the salt and sugar as described (heaped).

Notes from ReelsMeals, based on this recipe's ingredients, times and method. They are not the creator's instructions.

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B U R G E R F E C T I O N made this.

The recipe comes from B U R G E R F E C T I O N’s Instagram reel. ReelsMeals wrote it down from the caption and the voiceover. Check the original if something looks off, and for anything about allergens.

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