Grandad'S Piccalilli
Grandad's Piccalilli is a tangy, sweet and spicy relish made from green tomatoes, peppers, onions, and pickling spices, perfect for adding zest to sandwiches and meats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice tomatoes, onions, and peppers.
- Place in layers in a large enamel kettle and sprinkle salt between each layer.
- Cover and let stand for 24 hours.
- Drain and rinse twice.
- Tie pickling spices in a cheesecloth bag.
- Mix sugar, vinegar, and pickling spices and bring to a boil.
- Add vegetables and bring to a rolling boil and cook for 10 minutes.
- Pack in jars; seal and process in hot water bath for 10 minutes.
- Let stand for 2 weeks before using.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use firm, unblemished green tomatoes and fresh peppers. If you want to reduce the saltiness, consider rinsing the vegetables more thoroughly after draining. For a unique twist, you could add a dash of turmeric for color and flavor. This recipe can easily be scaled; just maintain the same ratios for the ingredients. If you're short on time, consider using a store-bought pickling spice blend.
Serving Suggestions
This piccalilli is perfect as a tangy condiment for sandwiches, especially with meats or cheeses. It pairs beautifully with vegetable medley (microwave) for a quick side dish. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as part of a charcuterie board. You can also enjoy it with crackers or as a topping for baked potatoes for a refreshing kick.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for optimal flavor development. Once opened, keep the piccalilli refrigerated and consume within a month. To enjoy leftovers, serve them cold directly from the fridge or allow them to come to room temperature. They also work well as a condiment when added to sandwiches or paired with cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandad'S Piccalilli contains roughly 254 calories, with 3g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 708mg per serving (31% 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 in this recipe?
Absolutely! While green tomatoes are traditional, you can experiment with other vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or even zucchini. Just ensure that the total volume remains similar to maintain the balance of flavors in the pickling process.
How long does this piccalilli last?
When properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place, your piccalilli can last for up to a year. After opening, keep it refrigerated where it will stay fresh for about one month. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consumption.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it does not contain any animal products. Just ensure that your pickling spices do not contain any non-vegan ingredients. You can enjoy it guilt-free alongside your favorite vegan recipes!
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).