Description

This Pickled Pepper and Onion Relish is a vibrant and tangy condiment made with thinly sliced red and green bell peppers and red onions, pickled in a flavorful mixture of apple cider vinegar, sugar, and spices. Perfect as a topping for burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, or grilled meats, it offers a crisp texture and a balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. Simple to prepare on the stovetop, this relish can be refrigerated for up to two weeks, enhancing any meal with its bright and zesty profile.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

2 cups thinly sliced red bell peppers
1 cup thinly sliced green bell peppers
1 ½ cups thinly sliced red onions

Pickling Liquid

1 cup apple cider vinegar
½ cup water
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
½ teaspoon celery seeds
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Pickling Liquid: In a medium saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, granulated sugar, kosher salt, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt have fully dissolved.
Add the Vegetables: Add the thinly sliced red and green bell peppers along with the red onions to the boiling pickling liquid. Return the mixture to a boil to ensure everything is heated evenly.
Simmer Briefly: Reduce the heat to low and allow the vegetables and pickling liquid to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes. This will soften the vegetables slightly while keeping their crispness intact.
Cool the Mixture: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the relish mixture cool for 15 to 20 minutes. This cooling step helps the flavors meld together and prevents the jar from cracking when filled with hot liquid.
Transfer and Refrigerate: Carefully pour the cooled relish, including the pickling liquid, into a clean jar or airtight container. Seal the container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before using to allow the flavors to develop fully. For best results, let it sit overnight.

Notes

This relish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Adjust the sweetness or heat by modifying the amount of sugar or crushed red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences.
Use as a flavorful topping on burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, or alongside grilled meats to add brightness and texture.
Ensure the jar or container used for storage is clean to maximize shelf life and freshness.