Easy And Traditional British Pub Style Pickled Onions Recipe

A classic British recipe! These easy pickled onions, ready by Christmas if started in October, are perfect for ploughman's lunches, cheese boards, fish and chips, or simply as a tasty snack. No brining required for this quick method (lasting 6-9 months), but instructions for extended shelf life (2+ years) are included. Get ready to enjoy the tangy crunch of these traditional pub favorites!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 64815 mins
Calories 533.3 kcal
Protein 16g
Rating 4.8 (6 Reviews)
Easy And Traditional British Pub Style Pickled Onions 18

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Easy And Traditional British Pub Style Pickled Onions

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How to Make Easy And Traditional British Pub Style Pickled Onions

  1. Peel 1 kg of red onions and pack one-third (approx. 333g) tightly into a large Kilner jar or preserving jar.
  2. Scatter 1 tablespoon of pickling spices over the first layer of onions. Repeat layering with another third of the onions (approx. 333g) and another tablespoon of pickling spices. Finish with the remaining onions (approx. 333g) and the final tablespoon of pickling spices.
  3. Pour 500ml of malt vinegar into the jar, ensuring all onions are fully submerged.
  4. Add more malt vinegar if needed to cover the onions completely.
  5. Seal the jar tightly and store in a cool, dark place for at least 6 weeks before enjoying. The longer they sit, the better the flavour!
  6. **For Extended Shelf Life (Brining Method):**
  7. Two days before pickling, place 1 kg peeled red onions in a large, non-metallic bowl.
  8. Dissolve 113g of salt in 950ml of water. Pour this solution over the onions, ensuring they are fully covered. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth.
  9. After two days, drain the onions thoroughly and pat them completely dry before following steps 1-5 above.
  10. Brined onions will last for 2 years or more when stored in a cool, dark place.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

2 g

Sugar

167g

Fat

1g

Carbs

32g