Mexican Pickled Onions

Mexican pickled onions, also known as “cebollas encurtidas,” are a tangy, slightly spicy, and vibrant topping that enhances the flavor of countless dishes.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Fresh Press Farms. However, all opinions and recommendations expressed are entirely my own.

This quick and easy recipe creates the perfect balance of acidity, sweetness, and heat, making it a staple in Mexican cuisine. You can make this flavorful topping at home with just a few ingredients without turning on the stove.

As a Mexican dietitian, I love adding nutrients and veggies to meals in creative ways. Adding Mexican pickled onions adds tanginess, texture, and a burst of color to your meal! Whether you’re topping tacos, tostadas, or sandwiches, these pickled onions will add a delicious burst of flavor.

Mexican Pickled Onions

This recipe has been passed down through generations by my grandma to my mom and now to me. The best part about it is that you don’t have to boil the water or cook anything to make it. You will find Mexican pickled onions at taco trucks, restaurants, and in home cooking meals.

This recipe uses peach cider vinegar which adds a touch of sweetness and balance to the onions. If you’re not a big fan of raw onions, you need to give these a try! Pickled onions are more subtle and don’t leave you with onion breath after 🙂

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just a few minutes with minimal ingredients.
• Versatile – Perfect for tacos, burritos, tostadas, salads, and more.
• Healthy & Light – No preservatives, just wholesome ingredients.
• Customizable – Adjust the spice level to your liking.

Ingredients

• Red onions, thinly sliced – You can substitute for white or yellow onions here. Red onions just add a nice pop of color and tend to have a milder flavor.
• Jalapeño peppers, sliced in half or quarters – Feel free to use serrano pepper if you’d like to hit up the heat a little.
• Oregano – Dried oregano enhances the flavors and adds a pop of sweet earthiness.
• Peach cider vinegar – My favorite vinegar from Fresh Press Farms adds the perfect mild, slightly sweet tang to Mexican pickled onions. It’s a better-tasting alternative with the same benefits as the traditional Apple Cider Vinegar. Find it at your local Sprouts! Substitute with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar if needed.
• Salt – Adjust to your taste.
• Sugar – It’s only a little bit so trust me on this one!

How to Make Mexican Pickled Onions

1. Prepare the vegetables – Thinly slice the red onions and cut the jalapeños into halves or quarters.
2. Dissolve the seasoning – In a small bowl, mix ½ cup hot water with salt and sugar until fully dissolved.
3. Assemble the jar – Add the sliced onions, jalapeño, and oregano to a large mason jar.
4. Pour in the liquids – Add the hot water mixture and vinegar to the jar, ensuring the onions are fully submerged.
5. Refrigerate – Seal the jar with a lid and let the onions pickle in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. The flavor deepens over time!

Tips

• Use red onions for the best texture and color.
• Adjust the spice by adding more or fewer jalapeños.
• Let them sit overnight for a more intense flavor.
• Experiment with vinegar – Swap peach cider vinegar for apple cider or white vinegar for a different taste.

How to Store Pickled Onions

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• Use clean utensils when scooping to maintain freshness.
• Use a glass container to prevent corrosion in plastic or metal containers.

How to Serve Pickled Onions

• Tacos & Burritos – Adds a tangy crunch to your favorite Mexican dishes.
• Tostadas & Flautas – They pair extremely well with crunchy food.
• Salads & Bowls – A flavorful topping for grain bowls and salads.
• Sandwiches & Burgers – Enhances the taste with a zesty bite.
• Avocado Toast – A pop of color and flavor on your morning toast.

Final Thoughts

Making Mexican pickled onions at home is incredibly simple and rewarding. They add a vibrant, tangy touch to any dish and are packed with flavor. Try this easy recipe and elevate your meals with this delicious homemade condiment!

Add Mexican Pickled Onions to:

Tofu Tacos

Potato Flautas

Tacos Ahogados

Bean Tostadas

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