If you love bold, tangy, and slightly sweet condiments, pickled pepper and onion relish is the perfect addition to your pantry. This vibrant, zesty relish is ideal for adding a punch of flavor to burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and even grilled meats. The combination of sweet and spicy peppers with the sharp bite of onions creates a balanced and versatile topping that enhances any dish.
In this post, we’ll explore the history of pickled relishes, discuss the best peppers and onions to use, provide a detailed step-by-step recipe, and share creative ways to use your homemade relish.
The History of Pickled Relishes
Pickling has been a method of food preservation for thousands of years. Historically, cultures worldwide developed different pickled condiments to store vegetables for extended periods. From classic American chow-chow to India’s spicy pickled vegetables, preserved relishes have played a significant role in many cuisines.
Pickled pepper and onion relish is a variation of these time-honored traditions, combining the crunchiness of onions, the heat of peppers, and the sweet-and-sour balance of a vinegar-based brine. This relish became especially popular in the United States in the 19th and 20th centuries, finding its way into Southern barbecue and picnic spreads across the country.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
The quality of your pickled pepper and onion relish depends on the ingredients you select. Here’s what you need to consider:
Best Peppers for Relish
- Bell Peppers: Provide sweetness and vibrant color.
- Jalapeños: Offer mild heat and a slightly grassy flavor.
- Banana Peppers: Mild and tangy, great for balance.
- Serrano Peppers: A spicier alternative to jalapeños.
- Habanero Peppers: For those who love an extra fiery kick.
Best Onions for Relish
- Sweet Onions (Vidalia, Walla Walla): Mellow and naturally sweet.
- Red Onions: Add a touch of sharpness and color.
- Yellow Onions: A great all-purpose choice.
Other Key Ingredients
- Vinegar: White vinegar or apple cider vinegar provides acidity.
- Sugar: Balances the tanginess and enhances flavor.
- Salt: Helps with preservation and flavor development.
- Garlic & Spices: Optional but highly recommended for depth.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Pickled Pepper and Onion Relish
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, and orange), finely chopped
- 1 cup jalapeños (or preferred spicy peppers), finely diced
- 2 cups sweet onions, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups white vinegar
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (optional, for color)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and finely chop all the peppers and onions. Remove seeds from the spicy peppers if you prefer a milder relish.
- Cook the Relish Base: In a large pot, combine vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic, and spices. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Add the Vegetables: Stir in the chopped peppers and onions, mixing well. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check the Texture: The mixture should soften but retain some crunch.
- Sterilize the Jars: While the relish simmers, sterilize glass jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
- Fill the Jars: Using a ladle, transfer the hot relish into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2-inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean.
- Seal and Process: Secure the lids and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes for long-term storage.
- Cool and Store: Let the jars cool at room temperature. Store in a cool, dark place for at least a week before using to allow flavors to develop.
How to Use Pickled Pepper and Onion Relish
This relish is incredibly versatile! Here are a few delicious ways to incorporate it into your meals:
- Topping for Burgers & Hot Dogs: Adds a sweet and spicy crunch to grilled favorites.
- Sandwich Spread: Mix with mayo for a tangy sandwich spread.
- Charcuterie Board Companion: Pair with cheeses and cured meats.
- Salad Dressing Add-in: Stir into vinaigrettes for an extra punch.
- Side for Grilled Meats: Complements steak, pork, or grilled chicken.
- Taco Topping: Enhances the flavor of tacos, burritos, or fajitas.
Customizing Your Relish
Want to tweak the flavor? Here are some variations:
- Sweeter Relish: Increase sugar by 1/4 cup.
- Spicier Relish: Add more hot peppers or a pinch of cayenne.
- Herbaceous Twist: Stir in fresh cilantro or basil before sealing the jars.
- Tangier Relish: Use a mix of apple cider vinegar and white vinegar.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Refrigerated: If not canned, store in the refrigerator and use within 3-4 weeks.
- Canned: Properly processed jars can last up to a year in a cool, dark place.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture may change.
Conclusion
Making your own pickled pepper and onion relish is a simple and rewarding process. Not only do you get to control the flavors, but you also end up with a homemade condiment that enhances a variety of dishes. Whether you enjoy it as a topping, a dip, or a flavorful mix-in, this relish is sure to become a household favorite. Try this recipe today, and let us know how you customize it to make it your own!