Elevate your condiment game with this tangy Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish. Perfect for topping burgers or enjoying as a side dish, this relish features a delightful blend of crunchy vegetables and a spicy kick. Whether it’s for summer barbecues or cozy winter meals, this versatile relish adds a burst of flavor to any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish
This relish is not just about taste; it brings numerous benefits to your table.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet and spicy elements creates a unique taste that enhances any dish.
- Versatile Use: Ideal for topping sandwiches, burgers, or even served alongside grilled meats and cheeses.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this relish in no time.
- Perfect for Canning: This recipe yields several pints, making it great for preserving the bounty of your garden.
- Great Gift Idea: Homemade jars of this relish make thoughtful gifts for friends and family who love cooking.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish, gather some essential tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large non-reactive pot
- Ladle
- Sterilized jars
- Canning lids and rings
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Large non-reactive pot: This ensures that the flavors meld without reacting with acidic ingredients like vinegar.
- Sterilized jars: Keeping your jars sterilized is crucial for safe preservation during the canning process.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish:
For the Relish
- 3 cups grated green pepper
- 3 cups grated pickling cucumber
- 1 cup minced or grated onion
- 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
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
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 the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the vegetables have softened and the liquid reduces by about one-third—this should take around 30 minutes.
Step 3: Drain and Add Remaining Ingredients
Drain the vegetables, discarding the liquid. Return the mixture back to the pot. Add in the remaining 1 cup of apple cider vinegar along with sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and red chili flakes.
Step 4: Cook and Can
Bring everything to a simmer once more. Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Then ladle into hot, sterilized jars while leaving about half an inch headspace. Seal them with lids and rings before processing in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Now you have delicious homemade Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish
Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish is a versatile condiment that can elevate your dishes in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a casual meal, this relish adds a unique flavor that everyone will love.
On Burgers
- Classic Cheeseburger: Top your juicy cheeseburger with a generous spoonful of relish for an extra zing.
- Veggie Burger: Enhance the flavors of your meat-free burger by adding a scoop of Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish.
With Sandwiches
- Deli Sandwiches: Spread some relish on your favorite deli sandwich for a delightful crunch and spice.
- Grilled Cheese: Add a layer of relish inside your grilled cheese sandwich for a surprising twist.
As a Side Dish
- Charcuterie Board: Include the relish in your charcuterie spread to complement cured meats and cheeses.
- With Cheese Plates: Pair it with creamy cheeses; the sweetness balances out the richness beautifully.
In Salads
- Potato Salad: Mix some relish into your potato salad for added flavor and texture.
- Coleslaw: Stir into coleslaw for a sweet and spicy kick that will brighten any gathering.
How to Perfect Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish
Perfecting your Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish can make all the difference in flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your relish turns out great every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables yield better flavor and crunch, enhancing the overall quality of your relish.
- Balance the Sweetness: Adjust sugar to taste; you can add more or less depending on how sweet you want your relish.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer more heat, increase the red chili flakes gradually until you find your perfect balance.
- Sterilize Jars Properly: Always sterilize jars before canning to prevent spoilage and ensure safety.
- Let It Rest: Allow the relish to sit for at least 24 hours before using it. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish
Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish pairs beautifully with various side dishes that complement its unique flavors. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside this delightful condiment.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy cabbage salad that pairs well with the tangy sweetness of the relish.
- Potato Chips: Crispy chips provide a great contrast and are perfect for dipping into the relish.
- Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread with a side of relish for a deliciously sweet and savory combination.
- Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans complements the spicy notes of the pickle relish perfectly.
- Deviled Eggs: Top deviled eggs with a small dollop of relish for an extra burst of flavor.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini or bell peppers work well alongside this spicy condiment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish can be straightforward, but certain pitfalls can affect the final product. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping sterilization: Failing to sterilize jars can lead to spoilage. Always heat jars in boiling water for 10 minutes before use.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can alter flavor and texture. Use precise measuring tools for best results.
- Ignoring simmer time: Cutting the simmer time short may result in crunchy vegetables. Ensure you simmer until the vegetables soften adequately.
- Overcooking: Cooking too long can lead to mushy relish. Follow the recommended cooking times closely for the right consistency.
- Neglecting headspace: Not leaving enough headspace in jars can prevent proper sealing. Aim for a 1/2 inch headspace when filling jars.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish in airtight containers.
- It will last up to 2 months in the refrigerator after opening.
Freezing Instructions
- While not common, you can freeze pickle relish.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags for best results.
- The relish will maintain quality for up to 6 months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm the relish in a covered dish for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, stirring between each interval.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish?
Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish is a flavorful condiment made from grated green peppers, cucumbers, and onions, combined with vinegar and spices.
How long does Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, it lasts about 2 months after opening, and up to 6 months if frozen.
Can I customize my Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish?
Absolutely! You can adjust the level of spice by adding more or fewer chili flakes or experimenting with different types of peppers.
What dishes pair well with Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish?
This relish complements burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, or even as a topping on grilled meats and salads.
Final Thoughts
Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish is a versatile condiment that adds a zesty twist to many dishes. It’s easy to make and offers opportunities for customization according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; you’re sure to enjoy its delightful flavors!
Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: About 6 pints 1x
Description
Elevate your meals with this irresistible Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish, a zesty condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. This easy-to-make relish combines crunchy green peppers, cucumbers, and onions with a balance of sweet and spicy elements that enhance everything from burgers to sandwiches. Perfect for canning, you can preserve the taste of summer all year round or share it as a thoughtful gift. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious homemade relish ready in no time. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this Sweet & Spicy Pickle Relish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 3 cups grated green pepper
- 3 cups grated pickling cucumber
- 1 cup minced onion
- 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
Instructions
- In a large non-reactive pot, combine the grated green pepper, cucumber, and onion.
- Stir in 1 cup of apple cider vinegar and bring to a simmer. Cook until vegetables soften and liquid reduces by one-third (about 30 minutes).
- Drain the mixture, discarding the liquid. Return the vegetables to the pot and add remaining vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and red chili flakes.
- Simmer again for another 5 minutes. Ladle into hot sterilized jars with half an inch headspace, seal with lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Sides
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 20
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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