To preserve small onions in jars, you'll need to pickle them properly. Here's how:
- Prepare the Onions: Peel your small onions.
- Sterilize Jars: Thoroughly clean and sterilize your jars and lids. Warm jars are preferred.
- Pack the Jars: Pack the onions tightly into the warm, sterilized jars.
- Prepare the Pickling Brine:
- Boil your vinegar and spices according to your desired recipe. (Recipes vary, but usually include vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and spices like peppercorns, mustard seeds, and bay leaves.)
- After boiling the brine, remove it from the heat and let it stand for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld.
- Pour Brine Over Onions: Carefully pour the hot brine over the onions in the jars, filling to just below the lid. Ensure no air bubbles remain.
- Seal the Jars: Seal the jars tightly with their lids.
- Wait and Enjoy: Let the jars sit for at least 6 weeks before eating. This allows the onions to properly pickle. If properly sealed, they should keep for up to 2 years. After this, they may soften in texture.
