Growing up, Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions was a dish that always brought back memories of my grandma’s kitchen. The tangy aroma of the brine, the rich sausage, and the sweet onions would waft through the air, making my mouth water. I can still picture myself as a little kid, sitting at the table, eagerly awaiting a plate of her famous Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions. The way the flavors blended together was simply magical – the briny pickled eggs, the savory sausage, and the caramelized onions creating a symphony of tastes that I just couldn’t get enough of. To this day, whenever I make Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions, I’m transported back to those cozy family gatherings, where we’d all gather around, swapping stories and enjoying every bite.
Why This Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions
What makes this Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions recipe so special is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key is in the pickling process – the eggs soak up the brine, becoming infused with that irresistible tanginess, while the sausage and onions add a delightful savory and sweet element. Plus, the unique cooking technique ensures that the Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions come out tender, juicy, and oh-so-satisfying every single time.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Eggs: Fresh, large eggs are the foundation of this dish. You’ll want to use eggs that are a few days old, as they’ll be easier to peel.
- Sausage: Choose your favorite type of sausage, whether it’s spicy Italian, smoky kielbasa, or mild breakfast links. The sausage adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- Onions: Sweet onions, like Vidalia or Walla Walla, work best in this recipe. The caramelized onions provide the perfect balance to the tangy pickled eggs.
- Vinegar: A combination of white vinegar and apple cider vinegar creates the perfect brine for pickling the eggs.
- Spices: Whole peppercorns, bay leaves, and a touch of sugar enhance the flavor of the brine.
Step-by-Step Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions Instructions
Preparing Your Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions
This Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions recipe is surprisingly easy to make, and the total hands-on time is just about an hour. You’ll need a few key pieces of equipment, like a large pot for boiling the eggs, a skillet for cooking the sausage and onions, and a large jar or container for pickling the eggs.
1- Start by hard-boiling the eggs. Place them in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the eggs simmer for 12 minutes. Drain and immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool completely.
2- While the eggs are cooling, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the sausage until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3- In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and sauté until they’re soft and caramelized, about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4- Once the eggs are cool, gently peel them and place them in a large jar or container. Pour the vinegar mixture over the top, making sure the eggs are completely submerged.
5- Add the cooked sausage and caramelized onions to the jar, then cover and refrigerate for at least 24 hours, or up to 2 weeks.
6- When ready to serve, simply remove the Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions from the brine and arrange on a platter. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions turn out perfectly, be sure to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and follow the pickling instructions carefully. It’s also important to let the eggs sit in the brine for at least 24 hours, as this allows the flavors to fully develop.
One common mistake to avoid is overcooking the sausage or onions. You want them to be tender and caramelized, but not dry or burned. Keep a close eye on them and adjust the heat as needed.
Serving and Storing Your Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions
Perfect Pairings for Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions
Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions are a fantastic appetizer or snack on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Try serving them alongside a hearty salad, crusty bread, or some tangy mustard for dipping. They’re also a great addition to a charcuterie board or a casual picnic spread.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, making them the perfect make-ahead dish. Simply keep them in a tightly sealed jar or container, and they’ll be ready to enjoy whenever you’re craving that tangy, savory flavor.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions
Creative Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different flavor combinations for your Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions. Try using a variety of sausages, like chorizo or andouille, or switch up the onions by using shallots or red onions. You could also add some fresh herbs, like dill or thyme, to the brine.
Making Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions Diet-Friendly
To make this dish more diet-friendly, you can use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork. For a low-carb version, simply omit the onions or substitute them with sliced radishes or cucumbers. And if you need a vegan or vegetarian option, you can skip the sausage altogether and use grilled or roasted vegetables instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of vinegar for the brine?
A: While the combination of white vinegar and apple cider vinegar works best, you can experiment with other types of vinegar, such as red wine vinegar or champagne vinegar. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly.
Q: How long do I need to let the Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions sit in the brine?
A: For the best flavor, you’ll want to let the Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions sit in the brine for at least 24 hours, or up to 2 weeks. The longer they sit, the more pronounced the pickled flavor will be.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions are the perfect make-ahead dish. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, so you can prepare them in advance and enjoy them whenever the craving strikes.
Q: How many people does this recipe serve?
A: This recipe makes enough Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions to serve 6-8 people as an appetizer or snack. If you’re serving it as part of a larger meal, it may serve up to 10 people.
Q: What if my eggs are difficult to peel?
A: If you’re having trouble peeling the hard-boiled eggs, try adding a teaspoon of baking soda to the water when you’re boiling them. This can help to make the shells easier to remove.
Print
Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions
- Total Time: 240
- Yield: 8
Description
Discover the delightful flavors of Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions in this easy, traditional recipe. This hearty dish makes a perfect snack or side for any occasion.
Ingredients
– Hard-boiled eggs
– Smoked sausage, sliced
– Yellow onions, sliced
– Distilled white vinegar
– Water
– Sugar
– Salt
– Pickling spices (such as peppercorns, mustard seeds, and dill)
Instructions
1. – Place the hard-boiled eggs, sliced sausage, and sliced onions in a large, clean jar or container.
2. – In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat and stir in the pickling spices.
3. – Pour the hot pickling liquid over the eggs, sausage, and onions, ensuring they are completely submerged.
4. – Seal the jar or container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to 2 weeks.
5. – Serve the Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions chilled, as a delicious snack or side dish.
Notes
For best flavor, let the mixture pickle for 24-48 hours before serving. Adjust the sugar and salt to your personal taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Main Courses
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions is a truly exceptional dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant cocktail parties. With its perfect balance of tangy, savory, and sweet flavors, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a new family favorite. So don’t hesitate – give this Pickled Eggs, Sausage and Onions recipe a try, and get ready to be transported back to your own childhood memories, just like I was. Bon appétit!