A Sweet and Savory Delight: Canning Corn Relish
Corn relish is a vibrant and flavorful condiment that adds a delightful burst of sweetness and tang to any meal. This recipe provides a simple and easy method for canning this delicious relish, allowing you to enjoy its fresh taste all year round.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups of sweet corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn)
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
Instructions:
1. Prepare the ingredients:
- Husk and clean the corn ears.
- Cut the corn kernels from the cob.
- Chop the bell peppers and onions into small pieces.
2. Combine the relish:
- In a large saucepan, combine the corn kernels, bell peppers, onions, vinegars, sugars, salt, pepper, and celery seed.
3. Cook the relish:
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Prepare the jars:
- Wash and sterilize eight pint-sized jars and their lids in boiling water for 10 minutes.
5. Fill the jars:
- Carefully ladle the hot relish into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
- Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any spills.
6. Seal the jars:
- Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until they are fingertip tight.
7. Process the jars:
- Place the jars in a large pot filled with enough water to cover the jars by 2 inches.
- Bring the water to a boil.
- Process the jars for 15 minutes, ensuring that the water is bubbling vigorously around the jars.
8. Cool the jars:
- Carefully remove the jars from the boiling water and place them on a clean towel to cool completely.
- As the jars cool, a satisfying "pop" sound will indicate that a vacuum seal has formed.
9. Store the relish:
- Store the canned corn relish in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Tips for Success:
- For a spicier relish, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- Experiment with different vinegar ratios for a sweeter or more tangy taste.
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Enjoy your homemade corn relish! This delightful condiment is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes, from hot dogs and burgers to sandwiches and salads.