This easy pickled pepper and onion relish is bursting with tangy goodness! It’s a colorful mix of crunchy peppers and zesty onions, perfect for topping burgers or enjoying with chips.
I love how this relish adds a pop of flavor to almost any meal. Plus, it’s super quick to make, and your friends will be asking for the recipe—just like mine do! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Onion: A large onion adds a zesty kick to the relish. I prefer yellow onions for their balanced flavor, but you could use red onions for a sweeter taste or white onions for a sharper flavor.
Bell Peppers: Use a mix of colors for a vibrant relish! Green, red, and yellow peppers all work great. If you’re looking for a twist, try using jalapeños for some heat or even roasted peppers for a smoky flavor.
Vinegar: White vinegar creates a classic pickling taste, but apple cider vinegar can add a fruity tang. Just adjust the sugar a bit if you swap it out for a less sharp flavor.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is standard, but you could use honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness. Just remember it may change the taste slightly!
Spices: Mustard seeds, celery seeds, and peppercorns bring great flavor. If you don’t have mustard seeds, fennel seeds could be an interesting swap. Don’t skip the spices—they really enhance the relish!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Pickled Relish?
The magic in pickling lies in allowing the flavors to meld together. Here’s how to get the most out of your relish:
- Slice your vegetables thinly for even pickling. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Bring your pickling liquid to a good boil, making sure all the sugar and salt fully dissolve.
- Simmer the spices with the liquid to release their essential oils, enhancing the overall taste.
- Let the relish cool down to room temperature before refrigerating; this helps the veggies absorb the flavors better.
- Always wait at least 12 hours in the fridge before tasting—the longer, the better!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a delicious, tangy relish that perfectly complements so many dishes!
Easy Tangy Pickled Pepper and Onion Relish
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Vegetables:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mixed bell peppers (red, green, yellow), thinly sliced
Pickling Liquid:
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
Spices:
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
Optional Flavor:
- 1 clove garlic, thinly sliced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and requires at least 12 hours of chilling time for the flavors to develop. Altogether, you can expect to spend about 15 minutes hands-on work, plus the chilling time in the refrigerator before it’s ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by thinly slicing your onion and the mixed bell peppers into strips. Try to keep the slices uniform in size so they pickle evenly.
2. Make the Pickling Liquid:
In a medium saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir it occasionally until the sugar and salt have completely dissolved.
3. Add the Spices:
Add the mustard seeds, celery seeds, and black peppercorns to the boiling liquid. Allow it to simmer for about 3-5 minutes. This helps the spices release their flavors into the vinegar mixture, creating a delicious brine.
4. Pack the Jar:
In a clean heatproof jar or container, layer the sliced onion, bell peppers, and optional garlic. Make sure they’re packed nicely for the best crunch and flavor absorption.
5. Pour the Hot Brine:
Carefully pour the hot pickling liquid over the vegetables in the jar, ensuring that they are fully submerged. This brine is super important for that tangy flavor!
6. Cool and Refrigerate:
Let the mixture cool to room temperature. Once cooled, cover the jar with a lid and place it in the refrigerator. It’s best to let it chill for at least 12 hours to allow all the flavors to develop. The longer it sits, the better it tastes!
7. Enjoy and Store:
Your tangy pickled pepper and onion relish is now ready to be enjoyed! Be sure to store in the refrigerator, and try to use it within 2 weeks for the best flavor and crunch.
Enjoy your delicious relish as a zesty topping for sandwiches, burgers, or just enjoy it straight from the jar!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Peppers?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for mixed bell peppers for sweetness and color, you can use any peppers you like. Feel free to mix in jalapeños for some heat or even use sweet mini peppers for a unique flavor!
How Long Will the Relish Last in the Fridge?
This relish can last in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To ensure the best flavor and crunch, try to consume it within that timeframe!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! This relish is perfect for making ahead of time. It requires at least 12 hours of chilling for the flavors to develop, so preparing it a day in advance is a great idea!
How Should I Serve Pickled Pepper and Onion Relish?
This tangy relish is versatile! Use it as a topping for sandwiches, burgers, or hot dogs. It’s also fantastic served alongside chips or as a tangy addition to salads and tacos.
