Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish is a delightful blend of crunchy vegetables and a spicy kick, perfect for enhancing burgers or serving as a side dish. This easy-to-make relish not only elevates your meals but also makes for an excellent homemade gift. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this tangy condiment will impress your guests and family alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is accessible for anyone looking to try their hand at canning.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet and spicy elements creates a unique taste that enhances any dish.
- Versatile Use: Perfect for topping sandwiches, adding to charcuterie boards, or enjoying straight from the jar.
- Great for Gifting: Homemade Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish makes a thoughtful gift for friends and family during the holidays or summer gatherings.
- Perfect for Preserving Summer Flavors: Capture the essence of fresh garden produce and enjoy it all year round.
Tools and Preparation
To make Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish successfully, you’ll need some essential tools to assist in the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Non-reactive pot
- Ladle
- Canning jars with lids
- Boiling water bath canner
Importance of Each Tool
- Non-reactive pot: Prevents chemical reactions that could alter the flavor of your relish.
- Ladle: Ensures easy transfer of hot relish into jars without spills.
- Canning jars with lids: Essential for storing your relish safely and extending its shelf life.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 3 cups grated green pepper
- 3 cups grated pickling cucumber
- 1 cup minced or grated onion
Vinegar & Seasoning
- 2 cups apple cider vinegar, divided
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
How to Make Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish
Step 1: Combine Vegetables
In a large, non-reactive pot, combine the grated green pepper, cucumber, and onion.
Step 2: Simmer Vegetables
Stir in 1 cup of apple cider vinegar. Bring to a simmer and cook until the vegetables have softened and the liquid has reduced by about one-third, which should take about 30 minutes.
Step 3: Drain and Add Remaining Ingredients
Drain the vegetables, discarding the liquid. Return the vegetables to the pot. Add the remaining 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and red chili flakes.
Step 4: Cook and Can
Bring the mixture back to a simmer and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Ladle into hot, sterilized jars while leaving about 1/2 inch headspace. Seal with lids and rings. Finally, process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure safety.
How to Serve Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish
Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish is a versatile condiment that enhances many dishes with its tangy and spicy flavor. Whether you are hosting a barbecue or looking for a way to jazz up your everyday meals, this relish has got you covered.
On Burgers
- Top your favorite burger with a generous spoonful of this relish for an extra kick of flavor.
With Hot Dogs
- Add a zesty touch to your hot dogs by mixing in some relish; it pairs beautifully with mustard.
In Sandwiches
- Spread the relish on sandwiches or wraps to create a crunchy texture and delightful taste.
As a Dip
- Serve Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish alongside chips or crackers for an easy and delicious dip option.
In Salads
- Mix it into potato or coleslaw salads for a refreshing twist that balances creaminess with spice.
With Cheese Boards
- Include this relish on cheese boards as a sweet and spicy complement to various cheeses and meats.
How to Perfect Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish, consider the following tips:
- Choose fresh vegetables: Using crisp, garden-fresh vegetables will enhance the crunchiness of your relish.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to modify the amount of red chili flakes based on your heat preference.
- Experiment with vinegar: While apple cider vinegar works well, trying different vinegars can add unique flavors.
- Let it rest: Allowing the relish to sit for at least 24 hours before serving helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.
- Store properly: Keep the jars sealed tightly and store them in a cool, dark place for long-lasting freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish
Pairing side dishes with your Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish can elevate any meal. Here are some great options:
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw complements the tangy relish perfectly, providing a nice crunch.
- Potato Salad: This classic dish benefits from the added flavor of pickle relish mixed right in.
- Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread balances well with the spiciness of the relish.
- Macaroni Salad: Stir in some pickle relish for added texture and zest in this popular summer dish.
- Baked Beans: Enhance your baked beans by adding a dollop of Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish for extra flavor.
- Grilled Vegetables: Serve grilled veggies alongside this relish for a fresh and vibrant plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish can be easy, but some common mistakes may lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
- Ignoring vegetable prep: Skipping the grating step can result in a chunky relish. Always grate your vegetables for the best texture.
- Not measuring accurately: Guessing the ingredient amounts can alter the flavor balance. Use precise measurements for vinegar and sugar to achieve the perfect taste.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking too long can make the vegetables mushy. Aim for a tender yet firm texture by monitoring closely.
- Skipping sterilization: Failing to properly sterilize jars can lead to spoilage. Always ensure your jars are cleaned and sterilized before canning.
- Neglecting headspace: Not leaving enough headspace in jars can cause overflow during processing. Remember to leave at least 1/2 inch of space for expansion.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
- Ensure the relish is completely cooled before sealing.
Freezing Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish
- For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This relish can last up to 6 months in the freezer.
Reheating Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place relish in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power until hot, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish?
Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish is a tangy condiment made from grated vegetables like cucumbers and green peppers, combined with spices and vinegar. It adds flavor to burgers and sandwiches.
How long does Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish last?
When refrigerated, it lasts for about 2 months. If frozen, it can be stored for up to 6 months without losing its taste.
Can I customize this Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish recipe?
Absolutely! You can adjust the spice level by varying the amount of red chili flakes or add other ingredients like garlic or bell peppers for different flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for canning?
Yes! This recipe is ideal for canning. Just follow proper sterilization techniques and ensure you process jars correctly.
What should I serve with Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish?
This relish pairs well with burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, or even as a side dish with grilled meats or salads.
Final Thoughts
Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it on various dishes or customize it according to your preferences. Experiment with different spices or vegetables to make it your own!
Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 cups (24 servings) 1x
Description
Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish is a vibrant condiment that balances crunchy vegetables with a delightful spicy-sweet flavor. Ideal for enhancing burgers, sandwiches, or as a dip, this homemade relish brings a burst of freshness to your meals. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply want to elevate your weeknight dishes, this easy-to-make relish will impress family and friends alike. It also makes for a thoughtful gift during the holidays! Capture the essence of summer garden produce and enjoy its tangy goodness year-round.
Ingredients
- 3 cups grated green pepper
- 3 cups grated pickling cucumber
- 1 cup minced onion
- 2 cups apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
Instructions
- In a large non-reactive pot, combine grated green pepper, cucumber, and onion.
- Stir in 1 cup of apple cider vinegar. Simmer until vegetables soften and liquid reduces by one-third (about 30 minutes).
- Drain the mixture, return vegetables to the pot, and add remaining vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and red chili flakes.
- Simmer for another 5 minutes. Ladle hot relish into sterilized jars with 1/2 inch headspace, seal with lids and rings.
- Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes for safe canning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (30g)
- Calories: 35
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Use fresh vegetables for optimal crunch. Adjust spice levels to your taste by varying red chili flakes. Let the relish sit for at least 24 hours before serving for enhanced flavors.
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