Canned Sweet Relish
Sweet relish with a tangy and slightly spicy flavor, made from fresh cabbage, onions, green peppers, and tomatoes. Perfect as a condiment for burgers, hot dogs, or sandwiches, this homemade relish offers vibrant flavors and a satisfying crunch, ideal for adding zest to your meals and preserving summer produce.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind the cabbage, onions, green peppers, and green tomatoes together.
- Let the mixture stand overnight in salt, then rinse thoroughly with cold water and drain.
- Transfer the mixture into a large pan and add sugar, vinegar, turmeric, and water.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 3 minutes.
- Transfer the hot relish into sterilized canning jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter relish, consider adding a bit more sugar or using honey as a natural sweetener. If you're looking to spice things up, try incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Make sure to rinse the vegetable mixture thoroughly to balance the saltiness. This relish can also be adjusted to suit vegan recipes by ensuring all ingredients are plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
This canned sweet relish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a condiment for hot dogs and burgers. It's also a fantastic addition to potato salads or as a topping for '24 Hour Cabbage Slaw'. Serve it alongside a cheese platter for a delightful contrast or include it in your next picnic meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover relish in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, ensure jars are properly sealed and can be refrigerated for up to a year. To enjoy, simply scoop out what you need; no reheating is necessary, as it can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Canned Sweet Relish contains roughly 1000 calories, with 18g protein, 182g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (579% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (71% of the Daily Value), and iron (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1895mg per serving (82% 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 other vegetables instead of the ones listed?
Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables like zucchini or carrots for different flavors and textures. Just ensure they are finely chopped or grated to maintain the relish's consistency.
How long does the relish last after canning?
When properly canned and sealed, this relish can last up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and consumed within two weeks.
Is the relish spicy?
This recipe is not spicy, but you can add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a kick. The sweetness from the sugar balances well with any added heat.
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).