Pickle Relish Recipes for Canning: A Taste of Summer in a Jar
Are you looking for a way to preserve the fresh, vibrant flavors of summer? Pickling is the perfect solution! And pickle relish is a versatile and delicious way to enjoy your favorite garden bounty long after the season has passed. This article will guide you through the basics of canning pickle relish and provide you with a few delicious recipes to get you started.
Why Make Your Own Pickle Relish?
Making your own pickle relish offers several advantages:
- Fresh and flavorful: You control the ingredients and can adjust the recipe to your liking, ensuring a truly unique taste.
- Cost-effective: Homemade pickle relish is often cheaper than store-bought varieties.
- Versatile: Enjoy it on hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, or use it as a flavorful addition to dips, salads, and more.
Basic Pickle Relish Canning Techniques
Here are the fundamental steps for canning pickle relish:
- Choose your ingredients: The most common ingredients for pickle relish include cucumbers, onions, and spices. However, you can get creative with your additions, using peppers, carrots, or even fruit like apples or peaches.
- Prepare your jars: Sterilize your canning jars and lids. This ensures a safe seal and prevents spoilage.
- Process your relish: Bring a pot of water to a boil, and then process your jars in a water bath canner for the recommended time (usually 10-15 minutes).
- Store your relish: After processing, allow the jars to cool completely. Then, store them in a cool, dark place.
Delicious Pickle Relish Recipes for Canning
1. Classic Dill Pickle Relish:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds cucumbers, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon dill seeds
- 1 teaspoon mustard seed
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a large pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pack hot relish into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Wipe jar rims clean, apply lids and bands, and process in a water bath canner for 10 minutes.
2. Spicy Pickle Relish:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds cucumbers, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon dill seeds
- 1 tablespoon mustard seed
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a large pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pack hot relish into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Wipe jar rims clean, apply lids and bands, and process in a water bath canner for 10 minutes.
3. Sweet and Tangy Pickle Relish:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds cucumbers, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon dill seeds
- 1 tablespoon mustard seed
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a large pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pack hot relish into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Wipe jar rims clean, apply lids and bands, and process in a water bath canner for 10 minutes.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh, high-quality cucumbers.
- Chop the cucumbers and other vegetables into small pieces for a finer relish.
- Don't overcook the relish. Overcooked relish can become mushy.
- Always follow the recommended processing times for your specific recipe.
- Store your canned relish in a cool, dark place.
Enjoy the delicious taste of summer all year round with these homemade pickle relish recipes!
