Old-Fashioned Corn Relish

Prep: 30 min Cook: 30 min Cuisine: American

A tangy and sweet old-fashioned corn relish combining fresh corn, cabbage, onions, and mangoes, perfect for adding vibrant flavor to any meal or picnic spread.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 14 ears corn
  • 2 small heads cabbage
  • 4 onions
  • 6 mangoes (red or green)
  • 3 cups sugar
  • 1/2 gallon vinegar
  • celery seed
  • turmeric

Instructions

  1. Prepare the corn, cabbage, onions, and mangoes as described.
  2. Combine all prepared ingredients in a large pot.
  3. Add sugar, vinegar, celery seed, turmeric, and salt.
  4. Cook for half an hour, stirring occasionally.
  5. Color with turmeric and adjust salt to taste.

Tips & Substitutions

For a sweeter relish, consider using ripe mangoes, which can enhance the flavor profile. If you don't have celery seed, dill seed can be a good substitute. When preparing the corn, try using fresh, in-season corn for the best taste. For a twist, add diced jalapeños for some heat, or incorporate chopped bell peppers for added crunch. Always taste before adding more salt.

Serving Suggestions

This corn relish is a delightful accompaniment to grilled meats, making it a perfect side for barbecue dishes like Barbecue Meatballs(Appetizers). It can also be enjoyed as a topping for tacos or sandwiches. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor. For a refreshing twist, pair it with a light salad or alongside Marinated 4 Bean Salad.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This corn relish can also be canned for longer storage; just ensure you follow proper canning procedures. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain even heating without losing texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Old-Fashioned Corn Relish contains roughly 680 calories, with 23g protein, 187g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (375% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (194% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (97% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2560mg per serving (111% of the Daily Value).

680 kcal 34% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 22.7g 45% DV
Total Fat 3g 4% DV
Carbs 186.7g 68% DV
Fiber 104.9g 100% DV
Sugar 41.1g 82% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2559.7mg 100% DV
Potassium 3290.2mg 70% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 869.4mcg 97% DV
Vitamin C 174.3mg 100% DV
Calcium 657.5mg 51% DV
Iron 11.6mg 64% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat

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 corn?

Yes, frozen corn can be used as a convenient alternative. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the pot. While fresh corn offers the best flavor and texture, frozen corn retains much of its sweetness and can still yield a tasty relish.

How long does the corn relish last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this corn relish can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator. If you notice any off smells or changes in texture, it's best to discard it. For longer storage, consider canning the relish following safe canning practices.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! This corn relish is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products. It's a great option for those following vegan recipes. Pair it with grilled vegetables or use it as a vibrant topping for plant-based dishes for a flavorful addition.

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).

American recipes → Vegan recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →