Barbecue Relish
A tangy, sweet, and smoky barbecue relish made with tomatoes, peppers, onions, and apples, perfect for adding bold flavor to grilled meats and sandwiches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind vegetables and apples through the coarse blade of a food grinder.
- Combine sugar, salt, spices, and vinegar to make the liquid mixture.
- Pour the liquid over the ground mixture and cook slowly for 20 minutes.
- Pack the hot relish into jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, you can blend the ground mixture after cooking. If you prefer a sweeter relish, consider adding more sugar or using honey as a substitute. To enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky twist. This relish is versatile and can be used in various dishes, including alongside American recipes like grilled meats or burgers.
Serving Suggestions
This barbecue relish is perfect as a condiment for grilled meats, sandwiches, or burgers. It pairs beautifully with Brandied Hot Dogs, adding a sweet and tangy kick. You can also use it as a topping for baked potatoes or mix it into salads for a zesty flavor boost. Serve it alongside cheese and crackers for a delightful appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store the barbecue relish in sterilized jars and seal tightly. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can also freeze the relish in airtight containers. If reheating, warm it gently on the stove while stirring to maintain its texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecue Relish contains roughly 1302 calories, with 19g protein, 195g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (664% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (48% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2603mg per serving (113% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of apples for this relish?
Yes, you can experiment with different apple varieties. Tart apples like Granny Smith work best for a balanced flavor, but you can also try sweeter options like Fuji or Honeycrisp for a milder taste. Just keep in mind that the sweetness will affect the overall flavor of the relish.
How can I adjust the spice level of the relish?
To increase the heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture during cooking. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the red peppers or reduce their quantity. Taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
Is it possible to can this relish for long-term storage?
Absolutely! To can the barbecue relish, follow proper canning procedures, including sterilizing jars and lids. Process the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 15-20 minutes to ensure they are shelf-stable. Always check for proper sealing and store in a cool, dark place.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).