Dottie'S Carrot Cucumber Relish
A vibrant and tangy relish combining crisp cucumbers, sweet carrots, and onions, perfect for adding zest to sandwiches, burgers, or as a side for grilled dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the ground cucumbers, onions, and carrots in a bowl.
- Let stand for 3 hours. Drain well.
- Combine sugar, vinegar, celery seed, and mustard seed in a pot and bring to a boil.
- Add the drained vegetables to the boiling mixture and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Pour the hot relish into sterile pint jars, seal, and process in a water bath for 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh, firm cucumbers and carrots to ensure a crunchy texture in your relish. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider substituting with sweet onions instead of regular onions. You can also adjust the sugar level to suit your taste or use a sugar substitute if you want a lower-calorie option. Remember to drain the vegetables well to avoid a watery relish.
Serving Suggestions
Dottie's Carrot Cucumber Relish is a delightful accompaniment for grilled meats, especially pairs beautifully with Tomato Barbecue Chicken. It can also be served alongside sandwiches, burgers, or as a topping for salads. For a refreshing twist, consider serving it with roasted potatoes and kielbasa for a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the relish in a cool, dark place. It can last for several months when properly sealed in sterilized jars. After opening, keep the jar in the refrigerator and consume within a few weeks. To serve, simply scoop out the desired amount without reheating, as this relish is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dottie'S Carrot Cucumber Relish contains roughly 284 calories, with 4g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (67% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 692mg per serving (30% 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 vegetables for this relish?
Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Just be mindful of the moisture content and adjust the salt and draining time accordingly to maintain the relish's texture.
How long does this relish last once opened?
Once opened, the relish should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within two to three weeks for the best flavor and freshness. Always use a clean spoon to scoop out the relish to avoid contamination.
Is this relish suitable for canning?
Yes, this relish is suitable for canning. Ensure you follow proper canning procedures, including sterilizing jars and processing in a water bath as described in the recipe. This will help preserve the relish for long-term storage.
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).