Tangy Pepper Onion Relish

Sweet and tangy, this Tangy Pepper Onion Relish is a delightful blend of colorful peppers and onions. It’s perfect for topping sandwiches, burgers, and hot dogs, making it ideal for barbecues, picnics, or any casual meal. The unique combination of vinegars and spices elevates the flavor profile, ensuring a burst of taste in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious relish in no time.
• Flavorful Addition: The mix of sweet and tangy flavors complements various dishes and enhances your meals.
• Versatile Use: Great as a condiment for sandwiches, burgers, or even as a topping for grilled meats.
• Colorful Presentation: The vibrant colors of bell peppers and onions make this relish visually appealing.
• Long-Lasting: Store it in the fridge, and it can last for weeks, ready to elevate your meals anytime.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Tangy Pepper Onion Relish, gather the essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Stirring spoon
• Clean jars or containers with tight-fitting lids

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for mixing ingredients without spills.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal size for heating the vinegar mixture evenly.
• Stirring spoon: Ensures all ingredients are well combined and flavors meld perfectly.

Ingredients

Sweet and tangy relish with colorful peppers and onions – the perfect topping for sandwiches, burgers, and hot dogs.

For the Relish

• 4 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced into thin strips
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced into half-moons
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon whole mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (skip if you don’t want the heat)

How to Make Tangy Pepper Onion Relish

Step 1: Combine the Vegetables

Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your thinly sliced bell peppers and onions. Mix them up so they’re evenly combined.

Step 2: Prepare the Vinegar Mixture

In a medium saucepan, pour in both vinegars. Add the sugar along with mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them.

Step 3: Heat the Mixture

Set your saucepan over medium heat. Bring everything to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally until all sugar granules dissolve.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Carefully pour the hot vinegar mixture over your peppers and onions in the bowl. Give everything a good stir to make sure all vegetables are coated in the pickling liquid.

Step 5: Cool Down

Let your relish cool down to room temperature before transferring it to clean jars or containers with tight-fitting lids.

Step 6: Refrigerate

Pop your relish in the refrigerator and try to wait at least 24 hours before digging in. This resting time allows all those flavors to mingle beautifully.

How to Serve Tangy Pepper Onion Relish

Tangy Pepper Onion Relish is a versatile condiment that can elevate many dishes. Its sweet and tangy flavor pairs beautifully with various meals, making it a perfect addition to your dining table.

On Sandwiches

• Add a generous spoonful of relish to enhance the flavor of any sandwich. It works especially well on turkey or chicken sandwiches.

As a Burger Topping

• Use this relish as a zesty topping for grilled burgers. It adds a delightful crunch and tang that complements beef or turkey patties perfectly.

With Hot Dogs

• Spoon some Tangy Pepper Onion Relish onto hot dogs for an exciting twist. The sweetness and acidity balance the richness of the sausage.

In Salads

• Mix it into salads for added flavor. Toss with greens, grilled vegetables, or even pasta salads for a refreshing kick.

As a Dip

• Serve it as a dip alongside chips or crackers. The vibrant colors and flavors make it an attractive appetizer for gatherings.

On Cheese Plates

• Pair this relish with cheeses for an impressive cheese board. It contrasts nicely with creamy cheeses and enhances their taste.

How to Perfect Tangy Pepper Onion Relish

Creating the perfect Tangy Pepper Onion Relish requires attention to detail. Follow these simple tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and onions provide better flavor and texture compared to older ones.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes in your recipe.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the relish to sit for at least 24 hours in the fridge helps the flavors develop more fully.

• Experiment with Peppers: Mix different types of bell peppers for unique color and taste variations.

• Seal Properly: Store your relish in airtight jars to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

Best Side Dishes for Tangy Pepper Onion Relish

Pairing side dishes with Tangy Pepper Onion Relish can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal vegetables bring out natural sweetness that complements the relish.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and freshness, creating a balanced meal.
3. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides comfort and pairs well with the tangy notes of the relish.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the acidity of the relish.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter pairs seamlessly with this vibrant condiment.
6. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans balances well, making them an ideal match for this relish.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings protein and fiber while allowing the relish’s flavors to shine through.
8. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf serves as a neutral base that highlights the tanginess of the relish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tangy Pepper Onion Relish, some common mistakes can impact the flavor and texture.

• Skipping the resting time: Not allowing the relish to rest for at least 24 hours prevents the flavors from fully developing. Patience is key for a delicious result.
• Overcooking the vinegar mixture: Boiling too vigorously can change the taste of your relish. Keep it at a gentle boil to maintain a balanced flavor.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using old or wilted peppers and onions can lead to a lackluster relish. Always choose fresh produce for the best taste.
• Ignoring proper storage: If not stored correctly, your relish can spoil faster than expected. Use airtight containers and refrigerate promptly after cooling.
• Forgetting to adjust spice levels: Every palate is different; not tasting as you go might lead to overly spicy or bland relish. Adjust spices according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in clean, airtight jars or containers.
• It can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Tangy Pepper Onion Relish

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 6 months; however, texture may change after thawing.

Reheating Tangy Pepper Onion Relish

• Oven: Place in an oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until heated thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tangy Pepper Onion Relish?

Tangy Pepper Onion Relish is a sweet and tangy condiment made with colorful peppers, onions, vinegar, and spices. It’s perfect for enhancing sandwiches and burgers.

How long does Tangy Pepper Onion Relish last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this relish can last up to two weeks. For longer storage, it can be frozen for six months.

Can I customize my Tangy Pepper Onion Relish?

Absolutely! You can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes or experiment with different types of vinegar for a unique flavor profile.

What dishes pair well with Tangy Pepper Onion Relish?

This relish complements various dishes such as sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, grilled meats, and even salads for an extra zing.

Is Tangy Pepper Onion Relish suitable for canning?

Yes! This relish is excellent for canning. Ensure you follow safe canning practices if you decide to preserve it longer than refrigeration allows.

Final Thoughts

Tangy Pepper Onion Relish is a delightful addition to any meal, bringing vibrant flavors and colors to your table. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!