sweet pickle relish recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
sweet pickle relish recipe
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The Best sweet pickle relish recipe

I’m so excited to share my sweet pickle relish recipe with you all today! This recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too. I first discovered sweet pickle relish at a family picnic when I was just a kid.

My grandmother was making it from scratch, and the smell of those pickled cucumbers and spices wafting through the air was just incredible. She would make big batches of it and store them in mason jars, which we’d then take on trips and use as a topping for hot dogs and burgers. It was the perfect condiment, and I’ve been hooked ever since.

As an adult, I’ve experimented with various recipes to perfect my own sweet pickle relish recipe. I’ve tried using different types of vinegar, adjusting the spice level, and even adding in fresh herbs like dill and parsley. But at the end of the day, there’s nothing quite like the classic recipe that my grandmother taught me.

The key to making great sweet pickle relish is to use high-quality ingredients and to not be afraid to experiment. Don’t be discouraged if your first batch doesn’t turn out exactly as you hoped – it’s all about finding that perfect balance of flavors. One of the things I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is.

You can use it as a topping for sandwiches, add it to your favorite BBQ sauce, or even use it as a side dish for picnics and barbecues. It’s also ridiculously easy to make – just chop up some cucumbers, onions, and bell peppers, mix them with some sugar, vinegar, salt, and spices, and voila! You have yourself a delicious homemade sweet pickle relish.

Sweet Pickle Relish

Sweet Pickle Relish

4.5 from 1129 votes

This sweet pickle relish is a tangy and sweet condiment made from fresh cucumbers, onions, and bell peppers. It is perfect for topping hot dogs, burgers, or adding to potato salad.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 32Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 25 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Relish

4 cups finely chopped pickling cucumbers
1 cup finely chopped onion
1 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
2 tablespoons pickling salt
1 cup white vinegar
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
1/4 teaspoon turmeric

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large bowl, combine the chopped cucumbers, onion, and red bell pepper.
2Sprinkle with pickling salt and stir to coat.
3Let the mixture stand for 2 hours to draw out excess moisture.
4After 2 hours, transfer the vegetable mixture to a cheesecloth-lined strainer or squeeze handfuls over the sink to remove as much liquid as possible.
5Rinse the vegetables under cold water to remove excess salt, then squeeze dry again.
6In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine the white vinegar, granulated sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and turmeric.
7Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
8Add the drained vegetable mixture to the pot and return to a boil.
9Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the relish thickens slightly and the vegetables are tender but still have a slight crunch.
10Ladle the hot relish into sterilized canning jars, leaving 1/2-inch headspace.
11Wipe the rims clean, seal with lids and rings, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes if canning for long-term storage.
12Alternatively, let the jars cool to room temperature and refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.

🔧Equipment

Large bowl
Cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer
Large heavy-bottomed pot
Sterilized canning jars with lids
Water bath canner (optional)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 25 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 180mg🌾Total Carbs: 6g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 0g

📝Notes

For a finer texture, pulse the vegetables in a food processor before salting. This relish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or in a cool, dark pantry for up to 1 year if properly canned.

Watch Video Of How Sweet Pickle Relish Works

I love serving this sweet pickle relish at family gatherings because everyone always raves about how delicious it is. And let’s be real – who doesn’t love a good condiment?

It’s perfect for topping hot dogs, hamburgers, or even using as a side dish for picnics or barbecues. And with its shelf life extending up to six months when stored properly in an airtight container or freezer bag, you can enjoy this tasty condiment all year round.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Pickle Relish

Q: What is the best type of vinegar to use in sweet pickle relish?

A: For this recipe, I recommend using white vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Both will give your relish a nice balance of acidity without overpowering the other flavors.

Q: Can I make this recipe without using sugar?

A: Yes, you can definitely reduce or eliminate the sugar if you prefer your relish less sweet. Keep in mind that it may not have the same depth of flavor as the original recipe.

Q: How long does sweet pickle relish keep in the fridge?

A: Sweet pickle relish will typically last for several weeks when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I make this recipe with fresh herbs instead of dried spices?

A: Yes, you can definitely use fresh herbs like dill or parsley if you prefer their flavor over dried spices.

Q: What’s the best way to preserve sweet pickle relish for long-term storage?

A: To preserve your sweet pickle relish for longer storage periods (up to 6 months), simply transfer it into an airtight container and store it in the freezer.

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