Pickled Pepper & Onion Relish – Tangy, Sweet & Perfect for Everything!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love bold, tangy flavors, this Pickled Pepper & Onion Relish is a must-try. It’s a delightful blend of sweetness and acidity with a slight kick from the peppers. This relish is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also a great way to preserve your fresh produce. It’s a versatile topping that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, tacos, or even served alongside cheese and crackers for a fun appetizer.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups sliced bell peppers (any color)

• 1 cup sliced red onion

• 2 cups vinegar (apple cider or white)

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 tablespoon salt

• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds

• 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a medium-sized pot, combine the vinegar, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, peppercorns, and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt dissolve completely.

2. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions into the pot. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for about 5-10 minutes, until the vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.

3. Carefully transfer the hot relish into sterilized jars, packing the vegetables tightly. Make sure to pour the pickling liquid over the top, ensuring the vegetables are fully submerged.

4. Seal the jars tightly with lids and allow the relish to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. The relish is best after 24 hours but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 2-3 jars of relish, depending on the size of your jars.

• Preparation time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes (plus cooling time)

Variations

• Spicy: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or use a hotter variety of peppers like jalapeños for an extra kick.

• Herb-infused: Throw in a few sprigs of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill to infuse the brine with additional flavors.

• Sweet: Adjust the sugar to taste if you prefer a sweeter relish. You can also use honey or maple syrup for a different twist.

• Vegetable variety: Experiment with different vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, or even cauliflower to create a colorful and varied relish.

Storage/Reheating

Store the relish in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits. There’s no need to reheat this relish—it’s perfect straight from the fridge and works best when chilled, especially when used as a topping or garnish.

FAQs

1. How long does the pickled relish last in the fridge?

This relish will last up to two weeks in the fridge, stored in an airtight container.

2. Can I use other types of peppers for this relish?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different peppers such as banana peppers, jalapeños, or even poblano peppers, depending on your taste.

3. Do I need to sterilize the jars for storage?

Yes, sterilizing the jars is important to prevent contamination and ensure the relish stays fresh for as long as possible.

4. How can I make this relish spicier?

To increase the heat, simply add more crushed red pepper flakes or use spicier peppers like jalapeños or serranos.

5. Can I can this relish for long-term storage?

Yes, you can process the jars in a water bath canner for long-term storage. Be sure to follow proper canning techniques to ensure food safety.

6. Can I use white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar?

Yes, you can use either white vinegar or apple cider vinegar, depending on your preference for flavor.

7. How long should I wait before using the relish?

For the best flavor, let the relish sit for at least 24 hours before using, but it can be enjoyed immediately if you’re in a hurry.

8. Can I use this relish as a topping for sandwiches?

Absolutely! This relish works wonderfully as a topping for burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, or wraps.

9. Is this relish suitable for vegetarians and vegans?

Yes, this pickle relish is entirely vegetarian and vegan-friendly.

10. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can adjust the sugar amount to suit your taste, or you could replace it with a sugar substitute, such as stevia or erythritol.

Conclusion

This Pickled Pepper & Onion Relish is a quick and easy way to add a burst of flavor to any meal. Whether you prefer it tangy, sweet, or spicy, this relish can be easily customized to suit your taste. Perfect for a variety of dishes or simply enjoyed on its own, it’s a must-have condiment in your kitchen arsenal!