Hot Honey Pickled Red Onions Recipe
Introduction
Hot honey pickled red onions are a vibrant and flavorful addition to any dish, offering a perfect balance of sweet heat and tang. Quick to prepare, these pickled onions add a delightful kick to tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more.

Ingredients
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, honey, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 2: Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the honey and salt.
- Step 3: Place the thinly sliced red onions into a jar or container.
- Step 4: Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the onions, making sure they are completely submerged.
- Step 5: Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then seal the jar and refrigerate.
- Step 6: Allow the onions to pickle for at least 24 hours before using to develop the best flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For a milder heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely.
- Try adding a clove of garlic or a few peppercorns to the brine for extra depth.
- Use raw sugar instead of honey for a different sweet note.
Storage
Store the pickled onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to two weeks. When ready to use, take out the desired amount and return the jar to the fridge. No reheating is necessary; serve chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar with white vinegar or red wine vinegar, but keep in mind the flavor will vary slightly.
How long do the pickled onions last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, they typically last up to two weeks while maintaining good texture and flavor.
PrintHot Honey Pickled Red Onions Recipe
Hot Honey Pickled Red Onions are a tangy, sweet, and spicy condiment that adds a vibrant punch to salads, tacos, sandwiches, and more. Thinly sliced red onions are soaked in a warm mixture of apple cider vinegar, honey, and spices, creating a perfect balance of flavors with a gentle heat from red pepper flakes. This easy-to-make recipe takes just 15 minutes to prepare, with pickling time enhancing the depth of taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus at least 24 hours pickling time)
- Yield: 1 jar (approximately 1 cup pickled onions) 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Pickling Mixture
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Main Ingredient
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Pickling Mixture: In a saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, honey, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper, stirring to blend the ingredients.
- Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to dissolve the honey and salt completely, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Place Onions in Jar: Arrange the thinly sliced red onions into a clean jar or airtight container, packing them evenly.
- Pour Hot Mixture Over Onions: Carefully pour the hot vinegar and honey mixture over the onions, making sure they are fully submerged to ensure even pickling.
- Cool and Seal: Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, seal the jar tightly and place it in the refrigerator.
- Pickling Time: Let the onions pickle for at least 24 hours before using. This resting period intensifies the flavor and softens the onions, making them perfect for garnishing your dishes.
Notes
- Use thin slices of red onion to allow faster and more even pickling.
- The longer the onions pickle, the more flavorful and tender they become; they can be stored for up to 2 weeks refrigerated.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to preferred spice level.
- This recipe works well as a topping for burgers, tacos, salads, and grilled meats.
- Use a non-reactive container (glass or food-safe plastic) to avoid metallic flavors.
Keywords: pickled red onions, hot honey, spicy pickled onions, quick pickles, condiment recipe, tangy onions

