Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe

Name: Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups white vinegar; 2 cups water; ⅓ cup cane sugar; 2 tablespoons sea salt; 2 small red onions, thinly sliced; Optional: 2 garlic cloves; Optional: 1 teaspoon mixed peppercorns

Published: November 23, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of total time needed, you can whip up this vibrant side dish in no time.
Versatile Use: These pickled onions complement a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to grilled meats and even salads.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of vinegar and sugar creates a perfect balance of sweet and tangy tastes that enhances any meal.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to add garlic or mixed peppercorns for an extra layer of flavor.
Long Shelf Life: Once prepared, these pickled onions can last in the fridge for weeks, making them a great make-ahead option.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious pickled onions, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Sterilized jars
Saucepan
Cutting board
Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

Sterilized jars: Ensures your pickled onions stay fresh longer by preventing bacterial growth.
Saucepan: Necessary for heating the brine ingredients evenly so they dissolve properly.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing your onions safely.
Sharp knife: Allows for thin, even slices of onions, ensuring they pickle uniformly.

Ingredients

For this Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pickling Brine

2 cups white vinegar
2 cups water
⅓ cup cane sugar
2 tablespoons sea salt

For the Onions

2 small red onions, thinly sliced
(Optional) 2 garlic cloves
(Optional) 1 teaspoon mixed peppercorns

How to Make Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Jars

Thinly slice the onions and divide them between 2–3 sterilized jars. This helps ensure equal distribution of flavor when you add the brine.

Step 2: Make the Brine

Heat the vinegar, water, sugar, and sea salt in a saucepan. Stir until fully dissolved. Allow the mixture to come together without boiling; you want it warm but not hot.

Step 3: Combine Onions with Brine

Pour the warm brine over the sliced onions in the jars. Ensure that all onion slices are fully submerged in the liquid.

Step 4: Cool Down

Allow the jars to cool at room temperature while uncovered. This step is crucial as it helps develop flavors before refrigeration.

Step 5: Refrigerate

Seal the jars tightly once cooled and place them in the refrigerator. They will be ready to eat after just one hour but taste best when allowed to rest overnight.

Enjoy your delicious homemade pickled onions as a zesty addition to your favorite meals!

How to Serve Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe

These quick pickled onions are a vibrant addition to many dishes. Their tangy flavor works well in a variety of culinary contexts, enhancing meals with their sharpness and crunch.

On Tacos

Add a spoonful of pickled onions to your favorite taco for an extra zing that complements meats and vegetables alike.

In Salads

Toss these pickled onions into green salads or grain bowls for a refreshing contrast and added flavor.

With Sandwiches

Layer pickled onions onto sandwiches, particularly those with turkey or chicken, to elevate the taste profile.

As a Garnish

Use them as a garnish for soups or stews, bringing brightness and color to your dish while enhancing the overall flavor.

On Burgers

Top your burgers with pickled onions for an unexpected twist that pairs beautifully with beef or turkey patties.

How to Perfect Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe

Making perfect pickled onions can be simple if you follow some key tips. These suggestions will help you get the best results every time.

Choose fresh onions: Using fresh red onions ensures the best flavor and crispiness in your pickles.
Slice evenly: Thinly slicing your onions ensures they pickle evenly and absorb the brine more effectively.
Cool the brine: Letting the brine cool slightly before pouring it over the onions helps maintain their crispness.
Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to add herbs or spices like dill or chili flakes for a personalized touch.
Store properly: Always use sterilized jars to keep your pickled onions fresh and safe from contamination.
Give it time: While you can eat them after an hour, allowing them to sit overnight enhances their flavor significantly.

Best Side Dishes for Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Gordon Ramsay’s pickled onions can create a delightful meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Grilled Chicken Salad: A light salad topped with grilled chicken and drizzled with vinaigrette complements the acidity of the pickled onions.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provides sweetness that balances the tartness of the onions.
Quinoa Pilaf: This hearty grain dish adds protein and texture, making it a satisfying side alongside any main course featuring pickled toppings.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with the sharpness of pickled onions, creating a flavorful combination.
Coleslaw: A zesty coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots offers crunch and freshness that pairs well with the tangy notes of the onions.
Crispy Fries: Classic crispy fries make for a delightful side, especially when topped with pickled onions for an elevated fast-food experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here’s what to watch out for:

Bold preparation: Skipping the slicing technique can lead to uneven pickling. Ensure you slice the onions thinly for better absorption of flavors.
Bold vinegar choice: Using low-quality vinegar can ruin the taste. Opt for a good quality white vinegar to enhance the overall flavor of your pickled onions.
Bold brine temperature: Pouring hot brine over onions can make them soggy. Allow the brine to cool slightly before pouring it over the onions to maintain crunchiness.
Bold storage methods: Not sealing jars properly can lead to spoilage. Make sure jars are airtight before refrigerating to keep your pickled onions fresh longer.
Bold waiting time: Eating the pickled onions too soon will miss out on developing flavors. While they are ready in an hour, letting them rest overnight yields the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in sterilized jars with airtight seals.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks for optimal freshness.

Freezing Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe

Freezing is not recommended as it can alter texture and flavor.

Reheating Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe

Oven: Not applicable for pickled onions; serve cold.
Microwave: Not recommended; enjoy straight from the fridge.
Stovetop: Warm gently if desired, but it’s best served chilled.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions special?

Gordon Ramsay’s recipe offers a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, making these onions a versatile addition to many dishes.

Can I customize this Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs or spices like dill or chili flakes for a unique twist.

How long do pickled onions last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Are there any variations of this recipe?

Yes! You can experiment with different types of vinegar or add other vegetables like carrots or cucumbers for variety.

What dishes pair well with Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions?

These pickled onions complement sandwiches, salads, tacos, and grilled meats beautifully, adding a zesty touch.

Final Thoughts

Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. They bring a zesty punch that enhances various dishes. Feel free to customize them with your favorite spices or herbs for an added kick. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delightful flavors it brings!

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