Sweet and Spicy Relish is a vibrant condiment that balances the perfect blend of sweetness and heat. Made with fresh vegetables, sugar, vinegar, and spices, this relish adds a bold kick to everything from hot dogs and burgers to grilled meats and cheese boards. It’s an ideal addition to your pantry for those who enjoy flavor-packed accompaniments.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This relish is the ultimate mix of tangy, sweet, and spicy. It’s incredibly versatile, adding depth and brightness to a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re looking to elevate a sandwich or add zest to a barbecue spread, this relish delivers. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift and can be preserved for long-term storage. The recipe is simple to follow and customizable to suit your desired level of heat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chopped cucumbers
- Red bell peppers
- Green bell peppers
- Onions
- Granulated sugar
- White vinegar
- Salt
- Crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños
- Mustard seeds (optional)
- Celery seeds (optional)
Directions
- Finely chop cucumbers, bell peppers, and onions. You can use a food processor for quicker prep.
- Place the chopped vegetables in a large bowl, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for about 2 hours. This draws out excess moisture.
- Rinse the vegetables thoroughly under cold water and drain well.
- In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, vinegar, and spices. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Add the drained vegetables to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly and the flavors meld.
- Carefully ladle the hot relish into sterilized jars, leaving some headspace.
- Seal and process in a water bath canner for long-term storage, or allow to cool and refrigerate for immediate use.
Servings and timing
Makes approximately 6 half-pint jars (about 48 servings at 1 tablespoon each)
Prep time: 30 minutes (plus 2 hours resting)
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Variations
- Extra Heat: Add habanero or serrano peppers for a spicier kick.
- Sweeter Profile: Increase the sugar for a more syrupy, sweet finish.
- Fruit-Infused: Add diced pineapple or mango for a fruity twist.
- Chunky Style: Keep the vegetable pieces larger for a heartier texture.
- Low-Sugar Option: Substitute sugar with a sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, adjusting to taste.
storage/reheating
Once prepared, Sweet and Spicy Relish can be stored in sterilized, sealed jars in the pantry for up to 1 year. After opening, keep the jar in the refrigerator and use within 4–6 weeks. Reheating is not necessary, as this relish is typically served cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
How long does sweet and spicy relish last?
Properly canned and sealed, it lasts up to 1 year in a cool, dark pantry. After opening, refrigerate and use within 4–6 weeks.
Can I freeze this relish instead of canning?
Yes, you can freeze the relish in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave space for expansion.
What types of vinegar can I use?
White vinegar is traditional, but you can also use apple cider vinegar for a slightly fruitier tang.
Is this relish very spicy?
The spice level depends on the amount and type of chili you use. Adjust according to your preference.
Can I skip the salt resting step?
It’s not recommended. Salting and resting helps draw out water and keeps the relish from becoming too watery.
What can I serve sweet and spicy relish with?
It pairs well with hot dogs, burgers, sausages, grilled meats, sandwiches, cheese platters, and even tacos.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, but it may affect the preservation process if canning. If storing in the refrigerator, adjusting the sugar is fine.
Do I have to sterilize the jars?
If you’re planning to store the relish unrefrigerated, yes. Sterilizing and sealing the jars is essential for safe preservation.
Can I use a food processor to chop the vegetables?
Yes, it saves time and ensures a consistent chop. Just be careful not to over-process into a puree.
Can I make a larger batch?
Certainly. Simply scale the ingredients proportionally, and ensure you have enough jars and processing equipment for canning.
Conclusion
Sweet and Spicy Relish is a flavor-packed condiment that brings both heat and sweetness to your meals. With its colorful appearance and bold taste, it’s a standout addition to sandwiches, grilled dishes, and more. Whether you’re preserving a summer harvest or preparing a year-round kitchen staple, this relish is as practical as it is delicious.
Print
This Sweet and Spicy Relish brings the perfect blend of heat and sweetness to elevate your burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and more. Packed with colorful bell peppers, onions, and jalapeños, it’s a must-have condiment that bursts with flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minut
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 3 cups 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
Ingredients
- 2 cups green bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 cup yellow bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 cup onion, finely diced
- 2 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 1/4 cups sugar
- 1 1/2 cups apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp celery seed
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine all chopped veggies and jalapeños.
- In a separate bowl, mix sugar, vinegar, mustard seeds, celery seed, turmeric, and salt.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the vegetables in the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once thickened and tender, remove from heat.
- Cool and transfer to sterilized jars. Store in the fridge or process in a water bath for longer shelf life.
Notes
For a spicier kick, leave the jalapeño seeds or add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes. Great as a DIY gift too!