Tangy and Delicious Sweet and Sour Pickle Relish Recipe
Welcome to my kitchen, where I’m excited to share with you my Sweet and Sour Pickle Relish recipe. This relish is a perfect addition to any sandwich, burger, or hot dog, and it’s so easy to make. As a chef, I believe that the best meals are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, and this recipe is no exception.
This relish is a combination of sweet and sour flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any taste buds. The recipe includes various types of pickles, onions, and peppers, creating a flavorful and textured relish that will elevate any dish you add it to.
I love making this relish at home because it’s not only delicious, but it’s also customizable. You can adjust the sweetness or sourness levels to your liking, and you can even add your favorite spices to make it your own. Plus, with this recipe, you’ll have a large quantity of relish that you can eat fresh or store for later use.
So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking. I promise this Sweet and Sour Pickle Relish will become a household favorite in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
![Sweet and Sour Pickle Relish](https://lifekirecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/sweet-and-sour-pickle-relish-1.jpg)
If you’re a fan of relish, you’re going to love this sweet and sour pickle relish recipe. It’s perfect for hot dogs, hamburgers, sandwiches, and even as a condiment for grilled meats. What makes this recipe stand out is the balance between the sweet and sour notes, with the addition of garlic and onion for a burst of flavor.
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a relish that is far superior to anything you can buy at the store. And if you’re a fan of canning, this relish can be canned and stored for later use.
The combination of bread and butter pickles, kosher dill pickles, and pickling cucumbers provides a mix of textures and flavors that is sure to please everyone. The addition of red and green bell peppers and onions adds a crunch and sweetness that complements the tangy flavor of the pickles.
But what sets this recipe apart is the use of mustard seeds, celery seeds, and apple cider vinegar. These ingredients give the relish a unique flavor that is both sweet and sour, with a hint of spice. And if you prefer a spicier relish, you can always add more mustard seeds or even some red pepper flakes.
Whether you’re serving this relish at a backyard barbecue or just enjoying it on a sandwich at home, you’ll love the flavor and texture of this sweet and sour pickle relish recipe. So why settle for store-bought relish when you can make your own delicious homemade version? Give this recipe a try and see for yourself why it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredient List
![A jar full of tangy goodness!](https://lifekirecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/a-jar-full-of-tangy-goodness.jpg)
Before starting with the recipe, you need to gather all the necessary ingredients. The Sweet and Sour Pickle Relish Recipe requires a total of 22 ingredients. Don’t worry; most of these are pantry staples and can be found easily in your local grocery store.
Vegetables
- 4 cups pickling cucumbers, finely chopped
- 1 medium white onion, finely diced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
- ½ green bell pepper, chopped
Pickles
- 2 cups bread and butter pickles, chopped
- 2 cups kosher dill pickle, chopped
- 1 cup sweet pickle relish
Vinegar and Sugar
- 1 cup cider vinegar
- 3 cups sugar
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
Spices
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1 tsp garlic cloves, finely chopped
Other Ingredients
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1/4 cup water
- 3 cups apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup pickling salt
Most of these ingredients are for making a large batch of the relish. You can adjust the quantities based on your needs, and the recipe can be easily halved or doubled. With this ingredient list, you can create a relish that is both tangy and sweet, with a perfect balance of flavors.
The Recipe How-To
![Sweet and sour, the perfect balance.](https://lifekirecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/sweet-and-sour-the-perfect-balance.jpg)
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to make some sweet and sour pickle relish! This recipe is easy to follow, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen.
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
First, prepare the cucumbers by slicing them in half lengthwise and removing the seeds with a spoon. Then, chop the cucumbers into small pieces, about 1/4 inch in size.
Next, dice the onion finely, and chop the bell peppers into small pieces. For this recipe, I like to use a combination of red and green bell peppers to add some color to the relish. Finally, chop the pickles into small pieces. You can use any type of pickles you like, but I prefer a combination of bread and butter pickles and kosher dill pickles for a balance of sweet and sour flavors.
Step 2: Make the Pickling Liquid
In a large pot, combine cider vinegar, sugar, and kosher salt. Add mustard seeds and celery seeds for extra flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Add the chopped vegetables to the pot with the pickling liquid. Bring the mixture back to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the vegetables to cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender but still have a bit of crunch.
Step 4: Can the Relish
Once the vegetables are cooked, it’s time to can the relish for later use. Ladle the hot relish into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth and screw on the lids.
Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This will seal the jars and ensure that the relish stays fresh for up to a year.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Your homemade sweet and sour pickle relish is now ready to eat! Serve it on hot dogs, hamburgers, or any dish that could use a bit of tangy flavor. It’s also great as a condiment on sandwiches or as a side with grilled meats. Enjoy fresh or store for later use.
Substitutions and Variations
![The perfect topping for your summer BBQ.](https://lifekirecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/the-perfect-topping-for-your-summer-bbq.jpg)
Don’t be afraid to experiment with this sweet and sour pickle relish recipe. You can customize it to make it your own by swapping out ingredients or adding new ones. Here are some substitutions and variations that you can try:
– Bread and Butter Pickles: If you don’t have bread and butter pickles on hand, you can substitute them with sweet pickles or gherkins.
– Onion: If you’re not a fan of onion, you can skip it altogether or substitute it with shallots or scallions.
– Vinegar: The recipe calls for cider vinegar, but you can use white vinegar or rice vinegar if that’s what you have in your pantry.
– Bell Pepper: If you don’t have bell pepper, you can substitute it with chopped sweet peppers or skip it altogether.
– Sugar: The quantity of sugar in this recipe can be adjusted to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter relish, add more sugar. If you want it to be less sweet, reduce the quantity of sugar.
– Mustard Seeds: If you’re not a fan of mustard seeds, you can skip them altogether or substitute them with celery seeds.
– Pickling Cucumbers: You can use regular cucumbers or English cucumbers if you don’t have pickling cucumbers. However, keep in mind that pickling cucumbers have a firmer texture and are less watery than regular cucumbers.
– Dill Pickles: You can make dill pickle relish by substituting bread and butter pickles with kosher dill pickles.
– Homemade Dill Pickle Relish: If you want to make homemade dill pickle relish, substitute the sweet pickles with homemade dill pickles.
– Cucumber Relish Canning Recipe: This relish recipe can be canned for later use. Simply follow a cucumber relish canning recipe found in Ball Blue Book or online.
Remember, the beauty of this relish recipe is that it’s easy to adjust to your liking. Don’t worry about making it perfect the first time around – it’s all about experimenting and finding what works best for you.
Serving and Pairing
![A colorful addition to any dish.](https://lifekirecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/a-colorful-addition-to-any-dish.jpg)
This sweet and sour pickle relish recipe is the perfect condiment to elevate any dish. It’s a versatile relish that pairs well with a variety of foods. Here are some serving and pairing suggestions to inspire you:
– Hotdogs: This relish is a classic topping for hotdogs. The combination of the sweet and sour flavors with the salty and savory hotdog is a match made in heaven.
– Burgers: Add a dollop of this relish to your burger for an extra layer of flavor. It works particularly well with cheeseburgers.
– Sandwiches: Whether it’s a turkey or ham sandwich, this relish adds a tangy and sweet kick that takes it to the next level.
– Salads: Use this relish as a dressing for your favorite salad. It pairs well with greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
– Charcuterie board: This relish is a great addition to a charcuterie board. It pairs well with different cheeses, crackers, and meats.
– Grilled meats: Use this relish as a marinade or sauce for grilled meats like chicken, pork, or beef.
– Tacos: Add a spoonful of this relish to your tacos for a sweet and tangy twist.
– Eggs: Use this relish as a topping for your eggs, whether it’s scrambled, fried, or boiled.
This relish is so versatile that the possibilities are endless. It’s a great way to add a pop of flavor to any dish. Enjoy it fresh or store it for later use.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
![A relish so good, you'll want to put it on everything.](https://lifekirecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/a-relish-so-good-youll-want-to-put-it-on-everything.jpg)
This sweet and sour pickle relish recipe can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It’s the perfect condiment to have on hand for a quick and easy addition to your favorite dishes.
To make ahead, simply prepare the relish as directed in the recipe and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to use it, simply scoop out the desired amount and enjoy!
If you have leftover relish, it can easily be reheated in a saucepan on the stove over low heat. Just be sure to stir frequently to prevent burning or sticking.
Storing the relish properly is important to ensure it stays fresh and flavorful. Make sure to use a clean and sterile container to store the relish, and keep it refrigerated at all times.
If you’re planning on canning the relish for long-term storage, be sure to follow a safe and tested canning recipe found in reputable sources such as Ball Blue Book or the National Center for Home Food Preservation.
Overall, this sweet and sour pickle relish is easy to make, versatile, and can be enjoyed fresh or stored for later use. It’s a great addition to sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, and more!
Tips for Perfect Results
![Homemade pickles never tasted so good.](https://lifekirecipe.com/wp-content/uploads/homemade-pickles-never-tasted-so-good.jpg)
Making a homemade sweet and sour pickle relish is easy and straightforward, and with a few tips, you can achieve the best results possible. Here are some tips to follow:
1. Use fresh and high-quality ingredients: The quality of the ingredients you use in your pickle relish recipe will make a significant difference in the final dish’s flavor and texture. Use fresh cucumbers, onions, and peppers, and make sure your pickles haven’t gone mushy.
2. Chop ingredients uniformly: Make sure to chop your ingredients to the same size to ensure even cooking and consistency throughout the relish.
3. Salt the cucumbers and onions: Salting the cucumbers and onions before using them in the recipe will help draw out their excess moisture and prevent the relish from becoming too watery.
4. Let the relish sit: After cooking the relish, let it sit for at least an hour before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together and develop a richer taste.
5. Store the relish properly: Store your homemade pickle relish in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you plan to eat it fresh, you can store it in the fridge for up to three days.
6. Use the relish in creative ways: Sweet and sour pickle relish is a versatile condiment that can be used in many dishes. Use it as a topping for hot dogs, hamburgers, or sandwiches, or mix it with cream cheese for a delicious dip.
By following these tips, you can create a delicious and flavorful sweet and sour pickle relish that will impress your family and friends.
FAQ
Before you start making this sweet and sour pickle relish recipe, you might have some questions in mind. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! In this section, I will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about this relish recipe. From substitutions to storage and canning, I will provide you with all the information you need to create the perfect relish. So, let’s dive in!
What is sweet pickle relish made of?
If you’re looking for a versatile condiment that can add a sweet and tangy flavor to your meals, you might want to try making a homemade sweet pickle relish. This relish is made with fresh cucumbers, onions, and a blend of spices, including mustard seeds and celery seeds, all simmered with sugar and cider vinegar to create a delicious topping that can complement a variety of dishes. From hamburgers and hot dogs to potato salad and sandwiches, this sweet pickle relish is a must-have in your pantry. So, let me guide you through the step-by-step process of making this tasty condiment.
What are the three types of relishes?
When it comes to relishes, there exists a plethora of variations, including Chow-Chow, Piccalilli, Pickle Relish, and Chutney. However, the differences between them can be quite blurry and difficult to distinguish.
Is pickle relish just chopped pickles?
Relish is a condiment that is widely used in the United States. It’s typically made by chopping up pickled cucumbers, either sweet or dill, and used as a topping for sandwiches, burgers or hot dogs. However, various regions across the globe have their own unique twists on relish, often featuring ingredients other than pickled cucumbers.
Is sweet relish and dill pickle relish the same?
The two types of relish, dill and sweet, differ in their flavor profile and ingredients. Dill relish is made with dill herb and contains a small amount of sugar, while sweet relish is spiced with clove and has a significant amount of sugar or other sweeteners.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this sweet and sour pickle relish recipe is a must-try for pickle lovers out there. It’s easy to make and customize according to your preference. Plus, it has a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors that will elevate any dish you pair it with, from hot dogs to sandwiches and even salads.
If you’re looking to make a homemade relish that’s better than any store-bought options, then give this recipe a shot. With fresh ingredients and a little bit of patience, you’ll have a delicious relish that you can enjoy fresh or store for later use.
So, gather your ingredients, put on your chef hat, and get ready to make the best sweet and sour pickle relish you’ve ever tasted. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it!
Sweet and Sour Pickle Relish Recipe
A great pickle relish for hot dogs, pasta salads, or even tuna salad.
- 1/2 cup kosher dill pickle, chopped
- 1/2 cup bread and butter pickles, chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- Mix all ingredients and store in the refrigerator at least 24 hours prior to serving so that the flavors will blend.
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