| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 259 | 0.4g | 0.1g | 67.1g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 55.8g | 2.6g | 1.8g | 0.44g |
Each time I make these Sweet Pickled Onions with Cloves, I can’t help but remember my sunny California days. There’s something about the recipe’s balance of sweet, tangy, and spiced flavors that captures both the vibrant farmer’s market freshness I love so dearly from the Golden State and a nostalgic nod to traditional homemade pickles – it’s a happy harmony between my west-coast-inspired healthy living philosophy and humble, comfort food-oriented upbringing. With so many delicious, versatile uses, these Sweet Pickled Onions with Cloves have worked their way up to becoming a staple in my home, and I’m confident they will in yours too.
A Health-conscious Twist on a Classic
Not only do these pickled onions taste amazing, they also come with a wealth of health benefits. Onions are a fantastic source of vitamin C and flavonoids, both known for their health-protective effects. On top of that, cider vinegar can help regulate blood sugar, improve digestion and boost heart health. Plus, the cloves present in this recipe provide an extra kick of antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. It’s truly a case of gastronomic pleasure meeting nutritious goodness.
Complementing Dishes and Creating Favorites
These pickled onions aren’t just a treat to the taste buds, they’re also incredibly versatile. I’ve found they pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes, enhancing flavors and adding a distinctive kick. They work splendidly as a topping on avocado toast, adding a unique tang to the creamy delicacy. Try them as an ingredient in a fresh salad, or alongside a heartwarming plate of steak or roast chicken – the possibilities are virtually endless! They’re similar in many ways to classic bread and butter pickles, although the apple and raisins bring a sweet-sour twist that’s uniquely their own.
Once you’ve tried these Sweet Pickled Onions with Cloves, I think you’ll find they play a star role in your recipe rotation – adding that little something extra that transforms a good meal into a great one. Now, roll up your sleeves and prepare to impress your palate with sweet, sour, and spice!
What You’ll Need
- 1 pound of red onions
- 1.5 cups of cider vinegar
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black peppercorns
- 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds
- 5 whole cloves
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 cup of raisins
- 1 apple, cored and chopped
Method
Step One
Peel and thinly slice 1 pound of red onions. Set aside.
Step Two
In a large pot, combine 1.5 cups of cider vinegar, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black peppercorns, 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds, 5 whole cloves, and 2 bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved.
Step Three
Add the sliced onions to the pot. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the onions have softened slightly.
Step Four
Add 1/2 cup of raisins and 1 chopped apple to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 15 minutes, or until the apple pieces are tender and the onions are completely softened.
Step Five
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the onions, raisins, and apple pieces to sterile jars, leaving the brine in the pot. Pour the hot brine over the onions in the jars, filling to just below the rim.
Step Six
Seal the jars and let cool to room temperature. Once cool, refrigerate for at least 24 hours before using to allow the flavors to fully develop. These pickled onions will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
