Who doesn’t love adding zesty toppings to their snacks and dishes?

Hot and spicy toppings make quite a difference to me.

These quick-pickled jalapeno peppers and onions are delicious on top of your favorite Mexican or Tex Mex vegan dishes.

They can also be enjoyed on their own, or in wraps, sandwiches, veggie burgers, salads — or anywhere you want a little extra spice.

For a nice twist, try the pickling liquid in place of plain vinegar in homemade vinaigrettes and marinades.

About Jalapeno Peppers 

Jalapeños

• are low in calories and a good source of fiber, vitamin C and vitamin B6 and antioxidants
• contain a compound called capsaicin, which gives them their spice
• may help keep your heart healthy
• may help to protect the stomach from ulcers
• may prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and yeasts that cause infectious diseases
• studies suggest that capsaicin may help fight cancer in high doses, but more research is needed
• may promote weight loss by boosting metabolism, increasing fat burn and reducing appetite

Possible side effects and precautions:

• a temporary burning sensation of the mouth after eating is the most common side effect — ranging from mild to severe
• if you have a low tolerance to spicy foods, take precautions that can reduce reactions to jalapeños
• avoid jalapenos with scarring: Look for smooth jalapeño peppers without small brown lines, as scars indicate a spicier pepper.
• wear gloves:  when handling peppers wearing gloves can prevent transferring the spicy compounds to other sensitive areas of your body like your eyes.
• remove white membranes: Remove the white membranes inside the jalapeño before cooking with them, since the membranes have the highest concentration of capsaicin.

A Bit About Onions

Since ancient times, the medicinal properties of onions have been recognized as they were used to treat ailments like headaches, heart disease and mouth sores.

Onions:

• are low in calories and high in valuable nutrients, including vitamin C, B vitamins and potassium
• may help reduce heart disease risk factors, such as high blood pressure, elevated triglyceride levels and inflammation
• are loaded with antioxidants
• red onions are rich in anthocyanins that may protect against heart disease, certain cancers and diabetes
• contain cancer-fighting compounds
• eating onions has been linked to a lower risk of certain cancers, including stomach and colorectal
• are a rich source of prebiotics, which help boost digestive health, improve the bacterial balance in your gut and benefit your immune system
• have antibacterial properties and can fight potentially dangerous bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) and more
• onions help reduce oxidative stress, boost antioxidant levels and decrease bone loss, which may prevent osteoporosis and boost bone density
• may help control blood sugar, which is especially important for people with diabetes or prediabetes.

Vegan Tex Mex Pickled Red Onions and Jalapeno Peppers

Prep time: 10 minutes + 1 hour rest time

Safety Tip: Wear gloves when handling jalapeno peppers to prevent burning.

Ingredients:

¾ c. white vinegar
¾ water
2 T. kosher salt
2 T. maple syrup
3-4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
1 medium red onion, sliced thin
5-6 jalapeno peppers, sliced into rounds, seeds removed

Directions:

Combine vinegar, water, salt, maple syrup, and minced garlic in a saucepan over medium heat.

Whisk to combine and heat until maple syrup is thoroughly dissolved.

Remove from heat and set aside.

Place the sliced onion and peppers in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.

Pour pickling solution over the contents of the jar to cover completely.

Let sit, uncovered, for at least one hour at room temperature.

Enjoy immediately or cover and store in the refrigerator for up to one week.

How do you like to use pickled onions and peppers?

Share your thoughts and comments with us.

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