This tangy pickled pepper and onion relish is a zesty treat! Made with colorful peppers and sweet onions, it’s perfect for adding a kick to sandwiches and burgers.
You can even eat it straight from the jar! I love how easy it is to whip up, and it brightens up any dish. It’s like a little jar of sunshine! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bell Peppers: Mixed colors add visual appeal and flavor. If you have only one color, that’s perfectly fine! Yellow and red peppers are sweeter, while green ones add a slight bitterness.
Onions: I love using red onions for their vibrant color and mild sweetness. White onions can also be used if you prefer a sharper taste. You can even substitute with shallots for an even milder flavor.
Vinegar: White vinegar is traditional, but you can switch to apple cider vinegar for a sweeter twist. Just remember that different vinegars will change the flavor a bit!
Sugar: Granulated sugar is standard, but if you’re looking for a healthier option, consider honey or agave syrup. Adjust the amounts as these sweeteners can be sweeter than sugar.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in Your Pickled Relish?
To truly let your relish shine, let it sit in the fridge for at least 24 hours. This time allows all the flavors to blend together and develop. However, for the best taste, I recommend waiting 2-3 days before digging in!
- When bringing your pickling liquid to a boil, stir it well. This helps to dissolve the sugar and salt completely.
- Ensure your vegetables are fully submerged in the liquid for even pickling. A weight like a clean jar or plate can help with this.
- Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh and vibrant.
Tangy Pickled Pepper and Onion Relish
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Relish:
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers, thinly sliced (red, yellow, green)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced (red or white)
For the Pickling Brine:
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, but you should plan for at least 24 hours of chilling time in the refrigerator for the flavors to come together. For the best flavor, waiting 2-3 days is ideal. You can store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, making it a great make-ahead condiment!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by thinly slicing your mixed bell peppers and onion. You can use any combination of colors you like. Place them in a large, heatproof bowl or jar. This is where your delicious relish will live!
2. Make the Pickling Brine:
In a medium saucepan, mix together the white vinegar, water, granulated sugar, salt, mustard seeds, and celery seeds (if you’re using them). For a bit of heat, throw in the crushed red pepper flakes. Add the sliced garlic as well. Heat this mixture over medium-high heat until it comes to a boil, stirring occasionally. Keep stirring until the sugar and salt have completely dissolved.
3. Combine the Pickles and Brine:
Once your brine is boiling and all the sugar and salt have dissolved, carefully pour the hot pickling liquid over the sliced peppers and onions in the bowl. Make sure all the veggies are submerged in the liquid. If needed, give them a gentle stir to mix everything well.
4. Let it Cool and Refrigerate:
Allow the relish to cool down to room temperature. Once it’s cool, cover the bowl or jar and place it in the refrigerator. Let it sit for at least 24 hours, but for the best flavor, wait 2-3 days.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your relish is ready, you can use it as a tangy condiment on sandwiches, burgers, grilled meats, or even add it to cheese platters. Enjoy your flavorful creation!
FAQ about Tangy Pickled Pepper and Onion Relish
Can I Use Different Types of Peppers?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match different types of bell peppers, such as orange or small sweet peppers. You can even add in some spicy peppers like jalapeños if you want to kick up the heat!
How Do I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a less sweet relish, reduce the amount of sugar to 1/2 cup. Alternatively, if you like it sweeter, add a little more sugar, but make sure to keep it balanced with the vinegar and salt!
Can I Make This Relish in Larger Batches?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe! Just ensure you have a large enough container for storing the relish and adjust the quantities of the brine ingredients accordingly. Just remember to still allow it to sit for 2-3 days for the full flavor to develop.
How Long Will the Relish Last in the Fridge?
The relish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For the best taste and crunch, enjoy it within that time frame. Just remember to keep it in a sealed container to maintain its flavor and freshness!
