Grandma'S Corn Relish
Grandma's Corn Relish offers a tangy, sweet, and savory blend of fresh vegetables and spices, perfect for adding vibrant flavors to summer meals or holiday spreads.
Ingredients
- 10 cups fresh or frozen whole kernel corn ⓘ
- 1 small head cabbage shredded ⓘ
- 6 medium onions ⓘ
- 4 medium green peppers chopped ⓘ
- 1 stalk celery chopped ⓘ
- 2 medium red peppers chopped ⓘ
- 1 quart cider vinegar
- 4 cups sugar ⓘ
- 2 1/2 teaspoons ground turmeric ⓘ
- 2 1/2 teaspoons dry mustard
- 2 teaspoons celery seed ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine the corn, shredded cabbage, chopped onions, chopped green peppers, chopped celery, and chopped red peppers in a large pot or Dutch oven.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cider vinegar, sugar, ground turmeric, dry mustard, and celery seed.
- Pour the vinegar mixture over the vegetables in the large pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Ladle the hot relish into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
- Adjust the caps on the jars securely.
- Process the jars in boiling water for 10 minutes for proper sealing.
- Let the jars stand for 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding diced jalapeños for heat or swap out the sugar for honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less turmeric or mustard. Always taste and adjust seasonings before canning. Remember to sterilize jars properly to ensure longevity, especially when making large batches like this Grandma's Corn Relish.
Serving Suggestions
This corn relish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served as a zesty topping for tacos or sandwiches. It also complements summer picnics alongside dishes like Lady Bird Johnson's Pedernales River Chili or on a charcuterie board. Enjoy it as a bright side dish at your next barbecue or family gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of relish in a cool, dark place for up to one year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within a month. If you have leftovers, they can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, but for the best flavor, serve it chilled or at room temperature straight from the jar.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Corn Relish contains roughly 385 calories, with 8g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (179% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 689mg 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 frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen corn works well in this recipe and can save you time. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the mix. The flavors will meld beautifully during the cooking process, making it a convenient option without sacrificing taste.
Is this recipe suitable for canning?
Absolutely! This corn relish is designed for canning, ensuring you can enjoy it throughout the year. Just follow the processing instructions carefully to achieve a proper seal, and remember to check the lids for any signs of spoilage before serving.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
You can reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet relish, but keep in mind that sugar also acts as a preservative. Adjusting it may alter the flavor and shelf life. Consider using natural sweeteners or balancing it with additional vinegar to maintain the right taste profile.
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).