Sirka Onion
Crisp, tangy onion rings marinated in vinegar with a subtle kick of spices. This no-cook Indian restaurant-style salad is ready in minutes and the perfect zesty companion to rich biryanis, pulao, and kebabs.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~3 min
Slice the onions into thin rings.
Peel the onions and slice them very thinly into rings. Separate the layers gently with your fingers so you have individual rings. Place them in a mixing bowl.
TIPUse a sharp knife for clean cuts — torn rings release more water and dilute the vinegar. - mix · ~1 min
Season and add vinegar.
1.Add black salt, regular salt, red chili powder, and chaat masala to the onions.2.Pour the white vinegar over the spiced onions.3.Toss gently with your hands or a spoon until every ring is coated evenly. - rest · ~15 min
Let the onions marinate.
Set the bowl aside for at least 15 minutes. The onions will soften slightly, release a bit of their bite, and soak up the tangy, spiced vinegar.
TIPTossing once halfway through ensures even pickling. Don't marinate longer than 2 hours or they lose their crunch. - serve
Serve as a tangy side.
Give the onions a quick final toss. Transfer to a serving katori and serve alongside biryani, pulao, or any rich North Indian meal.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Slice onions paper-thin for maximum surface area to absorb the vinegar marinade.
- 2Use a mandoline slicer for uniform rings that pickle evenly.
- 3Toss the onions halfway through marinating to ensure all rings are evenly coated.
- 4Do not marinate longer than 2 hours or the onions will lose their signature crunch.
- 5Serve chilled for an extra refreshing contrast to hot biryani or kebabs.
- 6Pat the onion rings dry after slicing to avoid watering down the vinegar dressing.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb-infused
Add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh coriander or mint leaves just before serving for a bright, herbaceous twist that complements grilled meats.
spicierSpicier
Increase the red chili powder to 1/2 teaspoon or add a finely chopped green chili for extra heat that cuts through rich, creamy curries.
sweet and sourSweet-and-sour
Stir in 1 teaspoon of sugar or honey to balance the vinegar's sharpness, creating a sweet-sour profile that pairs beautifully with spicy biryani.
lemon vinegar fusionLemon-vinegar fusion
Replace 1 tablespoon of white vinegar with fresh lemon juice for a citrusy lift that brightens the onions without overwhelming them.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Low-Calorie Flavor Booster
Sirka Onion adds intense tang and spice to meals with negligible calories, making it a guilt-free way to reduce reliance on heavy sauces or creams.
Rich in Quercetin
Onions are a top dietary source of quercetin, an antioxidant that may help reduce inflammation and support heart health.
Digestive Aid
The vinegar and black salt can stimulate digestive juices, making this salad a traditional palate-cleansing accompaniment to heavy or oily dishes.
No Added Fat or Sugar
This recipe relies solely on spices and vinegar for flavor, containing no oils or sweeteners — ideal for those watching their fat or sugar intake.
Frequently asked questions
Yes — apple cider vinegar or distilled malt vinegar work well, but they will slightly change the color and flavor profile. Avoid balsamic as it is too sweet and dark.
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