Making your own pickled pepper and onion relish is a simple yet rewarding culinary adventure. It brings a burst of flavor to your meals and is perfect for those who enjoy a tangy, sweet crunch in their dishes. Whether you’re looking to spice up a sandwich, top off a hot dog, or simply add a zing to your salads, this pickled relish provides the perfect solution.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make pickled pepper and onion relish. First, it’s incredibly versatile; you can use it with various dishes, including burgers, grilled meats, and cheese boards. Second, making this relish at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring it’s as healthy and fresh as possible. You can also modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences, making it sweeter, spicier, or tangier.
Moreover, this recipe is economical and straightforward, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time. The result is a delicious condiment that can elevate any meal to new heights. Once you try it, you might find yourself making it regularly!
How to Make Pickled Pepper and Onion Relish
Ingredients:
- 2 red bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 2 green bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced red and green bell peppers along with the sliced red onion.
In a saucepan, mix together the white vinegar, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and crushed red pepper flakes.
Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Once the mixture has boiled, carefully pour the hot vinegar mixture over the vegetables in the bowl. Use a spoon to mix well, ensuring every slice is coated evenly.
Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature
After cooling, transfer the relish to a jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Place the jar in the refrigerator and let the relish sit for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Enjoy the relish within two weeks, as long as it is kept refrigerated!
How to Serve Pickled Pepper and Onion Relish
Serving your homemade pickled pepper and onion relish is easy! It’s a perfect topping for grilled meats, sandwiches, or baked potatoes. You can also add it to cheese platters for an exciting flavor contrast. It works wonderfully as part of a fresh salad dressing or served as a side with fried foods.
If you want to explore more serving ideas, check out our related article on Simple Summer Salads, which can be deliciously enhanced with pickled relish.
How to Store Pickled Pepper and Onion Relish
Store the pickled pepper and onion relish in the refrigerator in an airtight jar. It’s best to consume the relish within two weeks for optimal freshness and tastiness. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming, such as abnormal smells or changes in color.
Tips for Success with Pickled Pepper and Onion Relish
Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your peppers and onions greatly affects the flavor. Fresh produce will yield a more vibrant relish.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer it spicier, consider increasing the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or adding a few fresh slices of jalapeño to the mixture
Experiment with Other Vegetables: Feel free to include other vegetables like carrots or cucumbers to give your relish a unique twist
Timing is Key: Allowing the relish to sit for at least 24 hours will help the flavors to develop and deepen.
Choose the Right Jar: Use a clean, sterilized jar to store your relish to ensure it remains safe and fresh for longer.
Variations
You can easily customize this recipe based on your tastes. For instance, if you enjoy a sweeter relish, you might increase the sugar. Alternatively, adding herbs like thyme or dill can create a uniquely flavored condiment.
Sweet and Spicy Version:
Mix in some honey or agave syrup with the sugar for a sweet touch, along with additional chili flakes for heat.
Herb-Infused Version:
Include fresh herbs like dill or basil while making the mixture. This variation is perfect for those who love fresh herb flavors in their condiments.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long can I store pickled pepper and onion relish?
You can store the relish in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Make sure it’s in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
2. Can I can this relish for longer storage?
This recipe is designed for refrigerator storage, but if you want to can it for longer shelf life, make sure to follow proper canning procedures.
3. What dishes pair well with pickled pepper and onion relish?
This relish pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, tacos, and salads. Its sweet and tangy flavor adds a delightful crunch to various meals.
For more delicious and easy recipes, explore our entire collection at Tasty Labo.
By creating your own pickled pepper and onion relish, you’re not just adding a tasty condiment to your refrigerator; you’re also enriching your meals with homemade goodness. Enjoy this unique burst of flavor!