A delightful blend of heat and sweetness, this Sweet and Spicy Relish is a versatile condiment that can elevate everything from hot dogs to grilled meats. With a crunchy texture and a bold flavor profile, it’s the perfect accompaniment for any dish that needs a little kick.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This relish strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and heat, making it an ideal addition to your pantry. It’s easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and stores well—perfect for making ahead. Whether you’re looking to upgrade a sandwich or add zing to a cheese board, this relish delivers on flavor and versatility.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Green bell peppers
- Red bell peppers
- Onions
- Jalapeño peppers
- Granulated sugar
- Apple cider vinegar
- Mustard seed
- Celery seed
- Salt
directions
- Begin by finely chopping the green bell peppers, red bell peppers, onions, and jalapeño peppers.
- Combine all the chopped vegetables in a large pot.
- Add the sugar, apple cider vinegar, mustard seed, celery seed, and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for about 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.
- Pour the hot relish into sterilized jars, leaving a small headspace at the top.
- Seal the jars and process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes for long-term storage, or simply refrigerate for immediate use.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 6 half-pint jars.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Milder Version: Reduce or remove the jalapeños for a less spicy relish.
- Extra Heat: Add crushed red pepper flakes or substitute some of the jalapeños with serrano peppers.
- Sweeter Relish: Increase the sugar slightly or add a touch of honey for a more pronounced sweetness.
- Tangier Twist: Use white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a sharper flavor profile.
storage/reheating
Store the relish in sterilized, sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year. Once opened, keep refrigerated and use within 2–3 weeks. Reheating is not necessary for relish, but you can bring it to room temperature before serving if preferred.
FAQs
What can I use sweet and spicy relish for?
It’s perfect on burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, grilled meats, or as part of a cheese or charcuterie board.
Is this relish suitable for canning?
Yes, the relish is ideal for water bath canning, which helps extend its shelf life.
How spicy is this relish?
It has a mild to moderate heat level, which can be adjusted by modifying the amount of jalapeños.
Can I freeze the relish?
Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect the texture. Canning or refrigeration is preferred.
How long does the relish last once opened?
Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within 2–3 weeks.
Can I make this relish without sugar?
You can reduce the sugar or substitute with a sugar alternative, but it may alter the flavor and preservation.
Is this relish gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check individual labels to be sure.
Can I use different types of peppers?
Yes, you can substitute or mix in other peppers like poblano, banana, or even habanero for different flavor and heat profiles.
Do I need to sterilize the jars?
Yes, sterilizing the jars is important for safe long-term storage if you’re canning the relish.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, the recipe can be doubled. Just ensure you have a large enough pot and adjust the simmering time as needed.
Conclusion
Sweet and Spicy Relish is a flavorful, vibrant condiment that enhances a wide variety of dishes. With its balance of heat and sweetness, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re preparing it for a picnic, a BBQ, or to stock your pantry, this relish is as practical as it is delicious.
Print
This sweet and spicy relish is a delicious homemade condiment made with crunchy peppers, cucumbers, and onions, perfect for burgers, sandwiches, and grilled meats.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
- Category: Condiment
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced cucumbers
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, salt, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil.
- Add cucumbers, bell peppers, and onions. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool. Transfer to a jar and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Adjust sweetness and spice level to taste.