Hot Relish(Canning!)
A vibrant, tangy hot relish with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors, ideal for canning and adding zest to meats, sandwiches, or appetizers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine green tomatoes, sweet peppers, salt, and alum in a large bowl.
- Let stand for 2 to 3 hours.
- Drain well.
- Combine vinegar and sugar in a large pot and bring to a boil.
- Add all ingredients to the boiling vinegar mixture.
- Heat just to simmering point.
- Remove from heat and can the hot relish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a milder relish, reduce the amount of ground hot peppers or substitute with sweet chili powder. If you prefer a crunchier texture, chop the ingredients a bit coarser. To enhance flavor, consider adding spices like cumin or coriander. Make sure to sterilize your canning jars properly to prevent spoilage. Using fresh, high-quality tomatoes will significantly improve the taste of your relish.
Serving Suggestions
Hot relish pairs beautifully with Sourdough Bread (You Must Already Have Starter) for a delicious appetizer. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as a condiment for sandwiches. It also complements cheese platters or can be added to salads for a spicy kick. Try it on tacos or as a zesty topping on baked potatoes for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store the canned hot relish in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and use within two weeks for the best flavor. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This relish also makes a great topping for burgers, sandwiches, or as a dip for chips.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Relish(Canning!) contains roughly 985 calories, with 15g protein, 160g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (115% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1635mg per serving (71% 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
How long can I store the hot relish?
Canned hot relish can be stored for up to one year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, however, it should be refrigerated and consumed within two weeks for the best taste and quality.
Can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily adjust the spice level by varying the amount of ground hot peppers. For a milder version, start with half the amount and taste as you go. You can also substitute with milder peppers or omit them completely for a sweet relish.
What is the purpose of alum in this recipe?
Alum helps to maintain the crispness of the vegetables in the relish. It acts as a firming agent, ensuring your relish has a pleasant crunch. Make sure to use food-grade alum and follow the measurement closely for the best results.
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).