Sweet Pickle Relish Recipe

Sweet Pickle Relish Recipe is a delightful way to bring a burst of flavor to your meals. This sweet and tangy relish, made from garden-fresh cucumbers, can elevate sandwiches, burgers, and salads. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a delightful homemade gift. With its unique blend of spices and easy preparation, you’ll find it hard to resist making batch after batch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create your own sweet pickle relish at home.
• Versatile Use: This relish pairs well with various dishes, from hot dogs to potato salads.
• Canning Option: Preserve your relish for later use with easy canning methods—enjoy it year-round!
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh cucumbers ensures a bright flavor that store-bought options simply can’t match.
• Flavorful Blend: The combination of spices like dill and mustard seeds adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the process, gather the necessary tools to make your Sweet Pickle Relish Recipe easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-reactive pot
• Strainer
• Food processor
• Medium pot
• Hot water bath canner (if preserving)

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-reactive pot: Keeps the flavors intact without reacting with acidic ingredients.
• Food processor: Saves time when dicing cucumbers and onions evenly, ensuring uniform texture in your relish.

Ingredients

Sweet and tangy relish made from garden fresh cucumbers. Make it to eat fresh or can it for later use throughout the year.

Cucumbers

• 3 pounds Pickling Cucumbers or 4 pounds of Large Cucumbers

Aromatics

• 1 Large Sweet Onion
• 4 cloves Garlic, Minced

Seasoning & Preserving

• 2 Tbsp Pickling or Kosher Salt
• 1 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
• 2 1/2 cups Sugar
• 2 teaspoons Dill Seed
• 2 teaspoons Mustard Seed
• 2 teaspoons Celery Seed
• ½ teaspoon Turmeric

How to Make Sweet Pickle Relish Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

Slice the cucumber lengthwise and remove the seeds with a spoon. Discard the seeds.

Step 2: Dice the Vegetables

Finely dice the cucumber and onion. I use my food processor, being careful not to process too long.

Step 3: Salt the Mixture

Place diced cucumbers and onions in a non-reactive pot and add salt. Stir well and let sit for 2 hours.

Step 4: Drain Excess Liquid

Drain the cucumber and onion mixture in a strainer until all liquid is removed. You may need to press against the strainer to eliminate hidden moisture.

Step 5: Create the Brine

In a medium pot, combine vinegar, sugar, garlic, dill seed, celery seed, mustard seed, and turmeric. Bring this mixture to a boil.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Add the drained cucumber and onion mixture back into the pot with the brine. Return everything to a boil.

Step 7: Simmer

Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 8: Cool Down

Remove from heat. Allow your relish to cool before storing.

Step 9: Store or Can

Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 weeks or process in a hot water bath canner for 10 minutes. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year.

Enjoy your homemade Sweet Pickle Relish Recipe!

How to Serve Sweet Pickle Relish Recipe

Sweet pickle relish adds a unique flavor to various dishes. It can enhance sandwiches, burgers, and even salads. Here are some creative ways to serve your homemade sweet pickle relish.

On Sandwiches

• Classic Deli Sandwich: Spread a layer of sweet pickle relish on your favorite deli sandwich for added sweetness.
• Egg Salad: Mix sweet pickle relish into your egg salad for a tangy twist.

With Grilled Meats

• Hot Dogs: Top grilled hot dogs with a generous spoonful of sweet pickle relish for the perfect summer treat.
• Burgers: Add a zing to beef or veggie burgers by incorporating sweet pickle relish in the toppings.

In Salads

• Potato Salad: Stir in sweet pickle relish to your potato salad for an unexpected burst of flavor.
• Tuna Salad: Enhance tuna salad with a scoop of relish to brighten up the taste.

As a Dip

• Crackers and Cheese: Serve sweet pickle relish as a dip alongside cheese and crackers for a delightful appetizer.
• Pita Chips: Pair it with pita chips for an easy and tasty snack.

How to Perfect Sweet Pickle Relish Recipe

Creating the perfect sweet pickle relish comes down to technique and fresh ingredients. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Cucumbers: Always choose crisp, garden-fresh cucumbers for optimal flavor and crunch.
• Let It Drain Well: Ensure you remove excess liquid from the cucumber mixture to achieve the right texture in your relish.
• Adjust Sugar Levels: Feel free to modify the sugar amount based on your taste preferences—more for sweetness, less for tanginess.
• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add other spices like coriander or red pepper flakes for a unique flavor profile.
• Proper Storage: Store in airtight jars in the fridge if not canning, keeping it fresh longer.
• Taste Before Canning: Always taste your mixture before sealing it up; adjust flavors as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Pickle Relish Recipe

Sweet pickle relish pairs well with many side dishes, enhancing their flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw complements rich meats and balances flavors wonderfully.
2. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans works beautifully with the tangy notes of the relish.
3. Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread alongside sweet pickle relish for a delightful contrast.
4. Macaroni Salad: This creamy dish benefits from the added zing of sweet pickle relish mixed in.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Pair grilled vegetables with a side of sweet pickle relish as a refreshing dip or topping.
6. Potato Chips: Serve potato chips with sweet pickle relish as a fun snack or appetizer option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making sweet pickle relish can be a fun experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong cucumbers: Always choose pickling cucumbers for the best texture and flavor. Regular cucumbers may not give you the desired crunchiness.
• Skipping the salting step: Salting the cucumbers and onions draws out excess moisture. Skipping this step can result in a watery relish that doesn’t have the right consistency.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in preserving. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you add the right amounts of vinegar, sugar, and spices.
• Failing to sterilize jars: If you’re canning your relish, it’s crucial to sterilize jars properly. This helps prevent spoilage and ensures longevity.
• Ignoring cooling times: Letting your relish cool before sealing it in jars is important. Sealing too quickly can trap steam and lead to spoilage.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store sweet pickle relish in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 6 weeks in the refrigerator.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing Sweet Pickle Relish Recipe

• You can freeze sweet pickle relish for longer storage.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It maintains quality for up to one year in the freezer.

Reheating Sweet Pickle Relish Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place relish in an oven-safe dish and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer relish to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals, stirring until warm.
• Stovetop: Pour relish into a small saucepan over low heat. Stir gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Sweet Pickle Relish Recipe?

Sweet pickle relish is a condiment made from finely chopped cucumbers, onions, and spices mixed with sugar and vinegar. It’s perfect for sandwiches or as a burger topping.

How do I use Sweet Pickle Relish?

You can use sweet pickle relish as a topping on hot dogs, burgers, or sandwiches. It’s also great in potato salads or as an ingredient in dips.

Can I adjust sweetness in my Sweet Pickle Relish Recipe?

Yes! If you prefer a less sweet flavor, you can reduce the amount of sugar used. Experimenting with ratios can help you find your perfect balance.

How long does homemade Sweet Pickle Relish last?

When stored properly, homemade sweet pickle relish will last up to 6 weeks in the refrigerator or up to one year if frozen.

What are some variations of Sweet Pickle Relish?

Feel free to customize your sweet pickle relish by adding ingredients like bell peppers, jalapeños, or different herbs to create unique flavors!

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Pickle Relish Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for enhancing many dishes, it’s an excellent way to enjoy garden-fresh cucumbers year-round. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices and vegetables for your own twist!

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Preserving Cucumbers