Are you looking for a quick and easy recipe to elevate your next barbecue or potluck? Look no further! This Cowboy Candy relish is a vibrant mix of sweet and spicy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It's the perfect homemade condiment, bursting with the goodness of fresh peppers and onions, simmered to perfection in a sweet and tangy sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, taking minimal time and effort while yielding maximum deliciousness. Prepare to be amazed by this simple yet incredibly flavorful addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 2 large red bell peppers, cored, seeded, and roughly chopped
- 2 large jalapeños, cored, seeded (remove some or all seeds for desired heat), and roughly chopped
- 1 large red onion, roughly chopped
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prepare the vegetables: Wash and roughly chop the bell peppers, jalapeños, and red onion. Removing the seeds from the jalapeños will reduce the spiciness; adjust to your preference.
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until slightly softened. Don't overcook; you want them to retain some texture.
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Simmer the relish: Add apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, brown sugar, yellow mustard, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Cool and store: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the Cowboy Candy relish cool completely. Once cooled, transfer it to sterilized jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Tips for the Best Cowboy Candy Relish:
- Adjust the heat: Control the spice level by adjusting the amount of jalapeño seeds you remove. For a milder relish, remove all the seeds; for a fiery kick, leave some or all of them in.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked vegetables will become mushy. Aim for a tender-crisp texture.
- Sterilize your jars: To ensure your relish lasts longer, sterilize the jars before storing. You can do this by washing them in hot, soapy water, then rinsing and letting them air dry completely.
Variations:
- Add some sweetness: Incorporate a touch of honey or maple syrup for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Get creative with vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like chopped carrots, zucchini, or even corn.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Protein: 1-2g
- Fat: 1-2g
This Cowboy Candy relish is a delicious and versatile condiment that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, burgers, hot dogs, tacos, or even as a topping for grilled cheese sandwiches. It's a fantastic way to add a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes, making it a delicious addition to your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!