Cilantro-pickled red onions

Cilantro-pickled red onions are a vibrant condiment that combines tangy vinegar, sweet sugar, and earthy cumin, perfect for enhancing tacos, salads, and sandwiches. This quick pickling method allows the flavors to develop in just 24 hours.

28 Nov 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1 cup vinegar
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp salt
1 tsp coriander leaves
3 onions

Cilantro-pickled red onions are a delicious and versatile condiment that adds a vibrant burst of flavor and color to a variety of dishes. These quick-pickled onions are perfect for tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more. The combination of vinegar, sugar, cumin, and fresh cilantro creates a delightful balance of tangy, sweet, and herbaceous notes.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Onions:
- Start by peeling the red onions. Cut them in half from top to bottom, then slice them thinly into half-moons. Ensure the slices are of even thickness for consistent pickling.

2. Make the Pickling Brine:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, ground cumin, sugar, and salt. Whisk the mixture together to help dissolve the sugar and salt.

3. Heat the Brine:
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to ensure the sugar and salt are completely dissolved. Once the mixture reaches a simmer, remove it from the heat.

4. Prepare the Pickling Jar:
- While the brine is heating, place the sliced onions into a clean, heat-resistant jar or a container with a tight-fitting lid. Layer the onions evenly to ensure they will all be immersed in the brine.

5. Add the Coriander:
- Sprinkle the chopped coriander leaves over the sliced onions in the jar. This will add a fresh, herbaceous flavor to your pickles.

6. Pour the Brine:
- Carefully pour the hot brine over the onions and coriander in the jar. Make sure that the onions are completely submerged in the liquid. If necessary, use a spoon or a similar tool to press the onions down.

7. Cool and Store:
- Allow the jar to sit at room temperature until the brine cools to room temperature. Once cooled, seal the jar with its lid and place it in the refrigerator.

8. Pickling Time:
- Let the onions pickle in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before using. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the onions to properly absorb the pickling brine.

9. Serve:
- These cilantro-pickled red onions are ready to enhance your dishes! Use them as a tangy and flavorful topping for tacos, sandwiches, salads, or any of your favorite dishes.

Your cilantro-pickled red onions are now ready to be enjoyed! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and they will keep well for up to two weeks. These pickled onions are a fantastic way to elevate your meals, adding a zesty twist that pairs wonderfully with many dishes.

Cilantro-pickled red onions FAQ:

How long does it take for the onions to pickle?

The cilantro-pickled red onions need to pickle for at least 24 hours in the refrigerator for the best flavor. However, they can be enjoyed sooner if you're short on time.

What type of vinegar is best for this recipe?

You can use any type of vinegar, but white vinegar or apple cider vinegar will provide a nice balance of acidity and flavor for the pickled onions.

How should I store leftover pickled onions?

Store any leftover pickled onions in a sealed jar or container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.

Can I substitute the sugar with another sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute sugar with a similar amount of honey or agave syrup, but note that this may slightly alter the flavor and sweetness level.

What can I use if I don’t have ground cumin?

If you don't have ground cumin on hand, you can omit it or substitute with a smaller amount of coriander or chili powder for a different flavor.

Tips:

- For a stronger cilantro flavor, add more fresh cilantro leaves to the pickling mixture.

- You can experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar, to vary the taste.

- For a bit of heat, consider adding a sliced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pickling mixture.

- Ensure the onions are fully submerged in the pickling liquid to achieve an even flavor throughout.

- Let the onions pickle for at least an hour before using them for the best flavor infusion.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 100kcal
Protein 0.52g
Carbohydrates 22g
Fiber 1.09g
Sugar 20g
Fat 0.16g

Cilantro-pickled red onions