Spicy Pepper Hash: A Fiery Addition to Any Meal

Hey there, fellow foodies! As a chef, I always strive to create dishes that are not only delicious but also have a story behind them. And today, I am excited to share with you my recipe for Pepper Hash – American Pikliz.

This dish has a special place in my heart because it is inspired by Haitian cuisine, which I have a deep appreciation for. Pikliz is a popular condiment in Haiti, which is made by pickling vegetables with vinegar and spices. This recipe is a twist on that classic, using scotch bonnet peppers and other ingredients to create a flavorful and spicy pepper hash.

Not only is this dish a delicious addition to any meal, but it is also a great way to explore the flavors of Haitian cuisine. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do and that it becomes a staple in your recipe collection. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pepper Hash - American Pikliz
Pepper Hash – American Pikliz

If you’re looking for a tangy and spicy dish to add to your recipe repertoire, then you’re in for a treat! This pepper hash – American pikliz recipe is sure to tickle your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

First and foremost, the combination of scotch bonnet peppers, habanero peppers, black pepper, salt, white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, white sugar, mustard seeds, and celery seeds creates a unique and flavorful taste that is hard to resist. The pikliz recipe is a Haitian classic that has been passed down through generations, and it is a popular condiment that is served with many dishes. Its versatility makes it a must-have in any kitchen.

The recipe is also incredibly easy to make. All you need are some thinly sliced cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, along with the previously mentioned ingredients. Simply combine them in a glass jar and let them sit for at least 3 hours. The longer you let it sit, the more flavorful it becomes. You won’t believe how simple and straightforward it is to make!

Moreover, this recipe is incredibly adaptable. You can use it as a side dish, a topping for sandwiches, burgers, or hot dogs, or as a condiment for any dish that needs a little extra flavor. It pairs perfectly with chorizo potato hash browns, black beans and salsa, or even vegetarian fried wontons. The possibilities are endless!

Lastly, this pepper hash – American pikliz recipe is an excellent choice for anyone looking to add more vegetable dishes to their diet. It’s a refreshing and healthy alternative to heavy, meat-based meals. Plus, the pickled vegetables in this recipe make it a great source of probiotics.

In conclusion, this pepper hash – American pikliz recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, spicy, and tangy flavors. It’s easy to make, versatile, and adaptable to any dish. Not to mention, it’s a healthy and refreshing alternative to heavy, meat-based meals. So what are you waiting for? Give it a try and experience the unique and delicious taste of this Haitian classic!

Ingredient List

 A colorful medley of peppers and onions make for a vibrant and flavorful dish.
A colorful medley of peppers and onions make for a vibrant and flavorful dish.

Let’s talk about the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious Pepper Hash or American Pikliz recipe. Don’t worry, you won’t need any fancy or hard-to-find ingredients. In fact, you may already have most of them in your pantry or refrigerator. Here’s what you’ll need:

Vegetables

  • 1 head of cabbage, shredded (about 4 cups)
  • 2 medium green peppers, thinly sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup of thinly sliced scotch bonnet peppers (or habanero peppers)
  • 1 cup of shredded carrots

Pickling Liquid

  • 1 cup of white vinegar
  • 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup of white sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of mustard seeds
  • 1 tablespoon of celery seeds
  • 2 teaspoons of salt

Make sure to have all the ingredients on hand before you start cooking to ensure a smooth and stress-free process.

The Recipe How-To

 This Pepper Hash is the perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
This Pepper Hash is the perfect balance of sweet and spicy.

Now, it’s time to cook! Here’s how to make this flavorful Pepper Hash – American Pikliz Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 head cabbage, shredded (4 cups)
  • 1-2 carrots, shredded
  • 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup chopped scotch bonnet peppers
  • 1/2 cup white vinegar
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup white sugar
  • 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
  • 1 tablespoon celery seeds
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon salt

Instructions:

  1. In a large glass jar, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, green bell pepper, and chopped scotch bonnet peppers.

  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, white sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, black pepper, and salt. Heat the mixture over low heat until the sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally.

  3. Pour the vinegar mixture over the vegetables in the jar. Close the jar tightly and shake it until the vegetables are evenly coated.

  4. Let the pepper hash sit at room temperature for at least 3 hours before serving.

  5. Serve the pepper hash as a side dish or condiment with your favorite meals.

Tips:

  • Be careful when handling scotch bonnet peppers as they are very hot. Wear gloves or wash your hands thoroughly after chopping them.
  • For a milder version of this recipe, use fewer scotch bonnet peppers or substitute them with bell peppers.
  • This recipe can be easily doubled or halved depending on the amount of pepper hash you need.

Substitutions and Variations:

  • Instead of using only green bell pepper, you can use a mix of different colored bell peppers for a more colorful dish.
  • You can add other vegetables to the mix, such as sliced onions, grated beets, or chopped tomatoes.
  • For a Haitian twist on this recipe, add some Haitian Pikliz to the mix.

Serving and Pairing:

  • This pepper hash is a versatile side dish that pairs well with many different meals. It goes particularly well with grilled meats, rice and beans, and vegetable dishes.
  • You can also use this pepper hash as a topping or condiment for burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and tacos.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating:

  • This pepper hash can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  • If the pepper hash is too spicy for your taste, you can dilute it with some additional vinegar or sugar.
  • To reheat the pepper hash, simply let it come to room temperature and serve.

With these simple instructions, you can make this delicious Pepper Hash – American Pikliz Recipe in no time!

Substitutions and Variations

 Get ready to add some heat to your plate with this American Pikliz recipe.
Get ready to add some heat to your plate with this American Pikliz recipe.

If you want to mix things up and try something different, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can make to this pepper hash recipe. Here are some ideas:

– Spice level: If you’re not a fan of super spicy food, you can tone down the heat by using fewer scotch bonnet or habanero peppers. Alternatively, if you want even more kick, you could add some extra black pepper or even some chili flakes.

– Vinegar: The recipe calls for a combination of white vinegar and apple cider vinegar, but you could experiment with different types of vinegar to see what you like best. Red wine vinegar, for example, would add a tangy depth of flavor, while balsamic vinegar would give the dish a sweeter, richer taste.

– Vegetables: While this recipe uses cabbage, green peppers, and carrots as the main vegetables, you could easily swap these out for other veggies you have on hand. Thinly sliced bell peppers, for example, would add a nice sweetness and crunch, while pickled vegetables like radishes or cucumbers would give the dish a unique twist.

– Serving suggestions: This pepper hash recipe is quite versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. It’s delicious as a side dish alongside meats like roasted chicken or grilled steak, but it also works well as a topping for burgers or hot dogs. For a vegetarian option, try serving it over a bed of rice or quinoa, or mix it into a salad for a tasty cabbage slaw.

No matter how you choose to customize this recipe, the key is to have fun and experiment with different flavors and ingredients. With its spicy kick and tangy vinegar base, this pepper hash is a great starting point for all kinds of delicious vegetable dishes.

Serving and Pairing

 This dish is great for adding some excitement to your breakfast, lunch or dinner.
This dish is great for adding some excitement to your breakfast, lunch or dinner.

This pepper hash is a versatile dish that can be served with many different meals. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats such as steak, chicken, or pork. The tangy flavor of the pickled vegetables complements the smoky flavor of the meats.

For vegetarians, this dish can be served alongside a hearty vegetable stir-fry or as a topping for a vegetarian burger. Its bold flavor will add a zing to any vegetable dish.

If you’re looking for a breakfast or brunch option, you can serve this pepper hash with chorizo potato hash browns, black beans, and salsa. The combination of the spicy peppers and the savory potatoes makes for a perfect breakfast dish.

For a Haitian-inspired meal, serve this pepper hash alongside some traditional pikliz. Pikliz is a spicy, pickled cabbage slaw that is a staple of Haitian cuisine. The combination of the two pickled vegetable dishes creates a unique and flavorful experience.

If you’re hosting a party or gathering, you can serve this pepper hash with vegetarian fried wontons. These wontons are a tasty appetizer that pairs well with the tangy pickled vegetables.

Overall, this pepper hash is a versatile side dish that can be paired with a variety of meals. Its bold and tangy flavor makes it a perfect addition to any meal.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

 The addition of vinegar and lime juice gives this dish a tangy kick.
The addition of vinegar and lime juice gives this dish a tangy kick.

This pepper hash recipe is a great make-ahead dish that can last for up to a week in the refrigerator. The flavors of the pickled vegetables actually get better with time, making it a perfect dish for meal prep or for serving at a weekend barbecue.

To store the pepper hash, transfer it to a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate it. Make sure the vegetables are completely submerged in the vinegar mixture to prevent spoilage. If you want to store it for longer than a week, consider freezing it.

When it’s time to serve the pepper hash, you can eat it cold or warmed up. To reheat, simply warm it up in a pan over medium heat until it’s heated through. You don’t want to overcook it, as the vegetables will become soft and lose some of their texture.

If you have leftovers, you can use them in a variety of ways. The pickled vegetables are great as a topping for sandwiches, burgers, or tacos. You can also use them as a side dish for grilled meats or vegetable dishes.

Overall, this pepper hash recipe is versatile, easy to make, and perfect for meal prepping. It’s a great way to incorporate pickled vegetables into your diet and add some zing to your dishes.

Tips for Perfect Results

 The perfect side dish for any occasion, this Pepper Hash is both easy to make and delicious.
The perfect side dish for any occasion, this Pepper Hash is both easy to make and delicious.

Preparing pepper hash is not a difficult task, but it requires some attention to detail to achieve the best results. Here are some tips to help you make the perfect pepper hash:

Firstly, when preparing the vegetables, make sure to slice them thinly and uniformly. This will ensure that they cook evenly and that the flavors are well-distributed.

Secondly, be careful when handling the scotch bonnet and habanero peppers. These peppers can be extremely spicy and can cause skin irritation. It is recommended that you wear gloves when handling them and wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.

Thirdly, when making the pickling liquid, be sure to use the correct ratio of vinegar, sugar, and salt. This will ensure that the pickling liquid has a balanced flavor and that the vegetables are properly preserved.

Fourthly, when storing the pickled vegetables, make sure to use a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Plastic containers can absorb the pickling liquid and affect the flavor of the vegetables.

Fifthly, while the recipe calls for white vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar instead for a slightly different flavor. Additionally, you can experiment with adding different spices to the pickling liquid, such as mustard seeds or celery seeds.

Finally, if you want to make a variation of the pepper hash, try adding different vegetables such as shredded carrots or thinly sliced bell peppers. These additions will complement the flavors of the scotch bonnet peppers and add texture to the dish.

By following these tips, you will be able to make the perfect pepper hash every time.

FAQ

Before we wrap up this article, let’s take a look at some frequently asked questions about this pepper hash – American pikliz recipe.

What is Haitian pikliz made of?

Pikliz is a well-known delicacy from Haiti that consists of a zesty pickled slaw made from shredded cabbage, carrots, onions, scotch bonnet, white vinegar, and lime juice. It is renowned for its spicy and tangy flavors that make it a perfect accompaniment to many Haitian dishes.

How long can you keep pikliz?

To ensure the best taste, make sure to cover and refrigerate the pikliz for a minimum of three days before opening. This will allow the flavors to fully develop and intensify. Once opened, keep the pikliz covered and stored in the refrigerator. With proper storage, your pikliz should last for three weeks or more.

Does pikliz need to be refrigerated?

Pikliz doesn’t necessarily require refrigeration due to the preserving properties of vinegar present in its recipe. However, storing it in a cool place such as the fridge can help maintain the vibrant color of the vegetables used in the dish. This information was last confirmed on May 13, 2013.

What does pikliz taste like?

Pikliz, a fiery and distinctive Haitian condiment, is made by combining pickled cabbage, carrots, and a mix of bell peppers, onions, scallions, and scotch bonnet peppers. Similar to pepper sauce found throughout the English-speaking Caribbean, pikliz is a popular accompaniment for various dishes in Haiti.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, pepper hash or American pikliz is a delicious and versatile recipe that you can enjoy with a variety of dishes. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, this recipe is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. With its pickled vegetables and spicy kick, it’s the perfect condiment for many dishes, including chorizo potato hash, hash browns with black beans and salsa, and vegetarian fried wontons.

So, if you’re looking to add some flavor to your meals, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed. And with its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll be able to enjoy it in no time. Plus, with the added health benefits of pickled vegetables and spices, it’s a great way to add some extra nutrition to your diet.

So, what are you waiting for? Get in the kitchen and try out this delicious pepper hash recipe today. And don’t forget to experiment with different variations to find your perfect flavor. Happy cooking!

Pepper Hash – American Pikliz Recipe

Once you’ve tried pikliz, if you’re a fan of spicy food, you’ll likely be addicted. But it is tough to find (outside of Haitian homes & communities). I tried some bottled ones – yuck. I also tested a few recipes, but I never found one that worked quite perfectly. Then I came upon an old American recipe – for something called "Philadelphia Hash" or "Pepper Relish." These are not spicy dishes (as is Haitian pikliz); rather they are savory side dishes or slaw-like condiments for sausages, roast meats, hot dogs. They seem to be fairly old-fashioned, of German origin, generally served with meats (in parts of Philadelphia, I understand they are usual hotdogs accompaniments). I tweaked the recipe to create a spicy option that seems Haitian-ish. Please note – I am not Haitian, and I have never (sadly) been to Haiti. So I’m not an expert; this is not authentic. But it is yummy!

  • 1 head cabbage, white, sliced as this as you can
  • 2 medium green peppers, sliced super thin
  • 4 teaspoons celery seeds
  • 3 teaspoons mustard seeds
  • 16 tablespoons white sugar
  • 1 1/2 cups apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • 3 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper
  • 4 scotch bonnet peppers (optional) or 4 habanero peppers (optional)
  1. Combine the vinegars. Add the sugar and salt to the vinegars, and stir until they’ve dissolved.
  2. Slice the cabbage as thinly as you can. I do it by hand and it is fairly tedious (this is the reason for the long prep-time in the recipe). Another option is to use the food processor, which results in a dish the consistency of KFC slaw; Be careful – it is really easy to end up with cabbage mush.
  3. Seed & slice the green pepper, also very thinly.
  4. If using the scotch bonnets or habaneros, seed & slice those super thinly. These are really spicy peppers (for those unfamiliar); handling them can burn your hands, and the burn can last a few days. I use disposable gloves when I cook with scotch bonnets or habaneros.
  5. Place the cabbage, green peppers, and all spices and seeds in a large container with a tight-fitting lid. Pour the vinegar mixture over it. Shake.
  6. The pepper hash can be eaten immediately. The flavor meld well over time. It lasts in the fridge for several weeks.
Side Dish
Haitian
< 60 Mins, Easy, From Scratch, Healthy, Inexpensive, Low Cholesterol, Low Protein, Vegetable

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