The Pickled Pepper and Onion Relish is a versatile condiment that brings a balance of tanginess and sweetness to any dish. Thinly sliced bell peppers and onions are steeped in a hot vinegar mixture spiced with mustard seeds, celery seeds, and turmeric, giving the relish a bright flavor. It's perfect for topping burgers, sandwiches, or even as a side with grilled meats. The relish gets better as it sits, making it a great make-ahead option for meals.
If you're looking for a tangy and flavorful condiment to enhance your meals, this Pickled Pepper and Onion Relish is the perfect choice. Made with fresh bell peppers and onions, it's a versatile topping that can brighten up sandwiches, burgers, or grilled meats. Let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to create this zesty relish.
INGREDIENTS
- Mixed bell peppers: 4 cups of thinly sliced bell peppers provide a colorful and crunchy base for the relish.
- Onions: 2 large onions, thinly sliced, add a savory depth to balance the sweetness of the peppers.
- White vinegar: 1 cup of white vinegar gives the relish its tangy, pickled flavor.
- Apple cider vinegar: 1 cup adds a slightly fruity, rich flavor that complements the peppers and onions.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup of sugar provides the necessary sweetness to balance the acidity of the vinegar.
- Mustard seeds: 1 tablespoon adds a subtle crunch and a mild spiciness to the relish.
- Celery seeds: 1 teaspoon contributes an herbal note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Turmeric powder: 1 teaspoon of turmeric adds a warm, earthy flavor and gives the relish a vibrant yellow hue.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon of salt helps to enhance and balance all the flavors.
- Ground black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon adds a mild heat to the relish.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): 1/2 teaspoon for those who enjoy a bit of extra heat in their relish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced bell peppers and onions. Set them aside while you prepare the pickling mixture.
- Step 2:
- In a medium saucepan, mix together the white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir the mixture over medium heat, bringing it to a boil. Continue stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Step 3:
- Once the pickling mixture has boiled and the sugar has dissolved, carefully pour the hot vinegar mixture over the sliced bell peppers and onions in the bowl. Stir well to ensure the vegetables are fully coated.
- Step 4:
- Allow the relish mixture to cool to room temperature. Stir occasionally to ensure all the flavors meld together evenly.
- Step 5:
- Once the relish has cooled, transfer it to airtight containers or jars. Refrigerate the relish for at least 24 hours before serving. This will give the flavors time to develop and intensify.
Serving and Storage Tips
- For the best flavor, let the Pickled Pepper and Onion Relish sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before serving.
- This relish pairs wonderfully with sandwiches, burgers, grilled meats, or even as a topping for tacos.
- You can store the relish in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container or jar.
Helpful Notes
- If you prefer a sweeter relish, you can add an extra 1/4 cup of sugar to the vinegar mixture.
- Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes based on your preference.
- For a different flavor twist, you can experiment with other spices like coriander seeds or fennel seeds in place of mustard seeds.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Bobby Flay recommends using a mix of colorful bell peppers for a vibrant and visually appealing relish.
- Chef Jamie Oliver suggests letting the relish sit for 48 hours before serving to allow the flavors to deepen further.
- Chef Alton Brown advises sterilizing the jars before storing the relish to ensure it stays fresh for longer periods.