Canned Cucumber Relish
A crisp, tangy relish featuring fresh cucumbers, onions, and peppers, perfect for brightening sandwiches, salads, or served as a flavorful condiment. Ideal for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice unpeeled cucumbers and dice the onions, celery, hot peppers, and sweet peppers.
- Place the sliced cucumbers and diced vegetables in a large canning pot and cover with salt and water.
- Soak the mixture for 12 hours.
- Heat the vinegar, sugar, and spices (mustard seed and celery seed) until the sugar is dissolved.
- Drain the water off the vegetables and add the hot vinegar mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for approximately 10 minutes or until well heated.
- Transfer the hot relish into sterilized canning jars and seal with hot disks and rings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier relish, consider adding more hot peppers or using pickled jalapeños. If you're short on time, let the cucumbers soak for a minimum of 6 hours. Always use fresh, firm cucumbers for the best texture. If you prefer a sweeter taste, adjust the sugar to your liking. This relish is versatile and can be used as a topping on burgers or sandwiches, similar to how you might use relish in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Canned Cucumber Relish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses and crackers. It also complements dishes like Cheesy Luncheon Bake or can be used as a zesty topping for sandwiches. For a refreshing summer salad, consider tossing it with chopped greens or adding it to Grape-Nut Salad for an extra crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 2-3 weeks. To enjoy the relish warm, simply spoon some into a microwave-safe dish and heat for about 30 seconds, stirring halfway through. This adds a delightful warmth to your meals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Canned Cucumber Relish contains roughly 1502 calories, with 47g protein, 308g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (345% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (147% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 cucumbers for this relish?
Yes, you can use any type of cucumber, but English cucumbers or Kirby cucumbers are recommended for their crunchiness. Just ensure they are fresh and firm to maintain the best texture in your relish.
How long will the relish last after canning?
Properly canned and sealed, the relish can last for up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, make sure to refrigerate and use it within 2-3 weeks for the best flavor and quality.
Can I make this relish without sugar?
If you're looking to reduce sugar, you can try using a sugar substitute designed for canning. However, keep in mind that sugar not only sweetens but also acts as a preservative, so the result may differ in flavor and shelf life.
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).