1 large red onion (about 12 ounces)
1/4 cup plus 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, divided
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
1 1/2 cups distilled white vinegar (or other variety)
Recipe
Halve the onion from root to tip. Slice lengthwise into 1/4-inch strips. Place in a bowl and sprinkle with the 1 t. of sugar and 1 t. of kosher salt. Using your hands, mix and massage the salt and sugar into the onion slices, separating the layers for about 3 minutes. The onion should soften slightly. Pack the onion slices into a 1 qt mason jar.
Bring the vinegar, 1/4 cup sugar, and the 1 T. kosher salt to a boil in a small saucepan. Turn the heat down and simmer, stirring, until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
Pour over the onions and make sure all the slices are submerged. Let sit at least 5 minutes at room temperature before serving.