Lotsa Pepper Relish(Makes 6 One-Cup Jars)
Lotsa Pepper Relish offers a vibrant, spicy-sweet flavor perfect for adding zest to meats, cheeses, or sandwiches, ideal for those who love bold, homemade condiments.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stem and halve peppers; discard seeds.
- Wear plastic gloves when handling hot peppers.
- Finely chop peppers and measure 4 cups into a 6 or 8-quart saucepan.
- Stir in vinegar.
- Measure sugar into a separate bowl and set aside.
- Stir pectin into peppers, then add margarine or butter.
- Bring mixture to a full, rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly.
- Quickly stir in sugar.
- Return to a full boil and boil exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat.
- Skim off any foam with a metal spoon.
- Ladle mixture into hot, clean jars, filling to within 1/8 inch of top.
- Wipe jar rims and threads.
- Cover with two-piece lids.
- Screw on bands until tight.
- Invert jars for 5 minutes, then turn upright.
- Cool for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, then shake jars gently to distribute peppers evenly.
- Check seals after jars cool.
Tips & Substitutions
When handling jalapeno peppers, always wear plastic gloves to avoid skin irritation. If you prefer a milder relish, you can reduce the number of jalapenos or substitute them with sweet peppers. Ensure your jars are sterilized properly to prevent spoilage, and consider using an immersion blender for a smoother texture if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Lotsa Pepper Relish makes a fantastic condiment for burgers, hot dogs, or sandwiches, adding a sweet and spicy kick. Serve it alongside cheeses or as a dip for crackers, and try it with a side of Fruit Salad Lush for a refreshing contrast. It also pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the relish in the refrigerator where it can last for several weeks. For best flavor, use within a few months. If you have leftovers, consider using them in sandwiches or as a topping for grilled meats.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lotsa Pepper Relish(Makes 6 One-Cup Jars) contains roughly 212 calories, with 4g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (173% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 types of peppers in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with other peppers like habaneros for added heat or use milder varieties like banana peppers for a sweeter relish. Just remember to adjust the quantity based on your heat preference and the peppers' flavor profiles.
How can I tell if my jars have sealed properly?
After cooling, check the lid's center; it should not pop up when pressed. If it does, the jar hasn't sealed correctly, and the relish should be refrigerated and used promptly. Properly sealed jars will have a firm lid and no movement.
What can I do if my relish is too thick?
If your relish turns out too thick, you can add a little more cider vinegar or water to achieve the desired consistency. Reheat gently while stirring to incorporate the liquid evenly, being careful not to boil it again.
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).