Tangy Pickled Pepper and Onion Relish Recipe
This Tangy Pickled Pepper and Onion Relish is a vibrant, flavorful condiment made from a blend of mixed bell peppers and onions simmered in a tangy vinegar and spice mixture. Perfect for adding a zesty kick to sandwiches, burgers, grilled meats, or salads, this relish balances sweetness, acidity, and spice with a satisfying crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus 24 hours refrigeration before serving)
- Yield: Approximately 4 cups (serves around 8 as a condiment) 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 cups mixed bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
Pickling Mixture
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pickling Liquid: In a large saucepan, combine the white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add Vegetables to Pickling Liquid: Add the thinly sliced bell peppers and onions to the saucepan. Stir them thoroughly to ensure they are well coated in the vinegar and spice mixture.
- Simmer the Relish: Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 to 15 minutes. This step softens the vegetables slightly while preserving some of their crunch and allows the flavors to meld together.
- Cool the Relish: Remove the saucepan from heat and set it aside to cool to room temperature. Cooling allows the flavors to develop fully before storing.
- Store the Relish: Transfer the cooled relish into clean, sterilized jars with airtight lids. Seal the jars tightly and refrigerate the relish for at least 24 hours before serving. This resting time helps the flavors intensify.
- Serve and Enjoy: Use the tangy pickled pepper and onion relish as a condiment with sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, grilled meats, or as a salad topping to add a bright, zesty touch.
Notes
- Use fresh, crisp bell peppers for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the spice level or omit for a milder relish.
- Ensure jars are properly sterilized to extend shelf life and prevent contamination.
- Refrigerate the relish and consume within 2 weeks for optimal freshness.
- Allowing the relish to sit for at least 24 hours enhances flavor development.
Keywords: Pickled pepper relish, Pickled onion relish, Tangy condiment, Bell pepper relish, Onion relish, Pickled vegetables
