Are you looking for a quick and easy way to elevate your meals? Look no further! This vibrant pepper and onion relish is the perfect addition to any dish, from grilled meats and tacos to sandwiches and eggs. It's a simple recipe, bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors, making it a delightful homemade condiment that will impress your family and friends. This recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, or simply delicious dishes for any occasion. It's a great example of easy recipes and homemade cooking at its finest.
Ingredients:
- 2 large bell peppers (any color combination – red, yellow, orange, green), seeded and thinly sliced
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 jalapeño pepper (optional), seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- ½ cup white vinegar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for a warm flavor)
Instructions:
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Prep the Vegetables: Begin by washing and thinly slicing your bell peppers and red onion. If using jalapeño, remove the seeds and membranes for less heat, then mince it finely. Thin slicing ensures even cooking and a pleasant texture.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and peppers and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. If using jalapeño, add it during the last minute of sautéing to retain its freshness.
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Simmer the Relish: Add the white vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and cumin (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers and onions are tender and slightly caramelized. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Cool and Store: Remove the skillet from the heat and let the relish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. This relish improves in flavor as it sits, so making it ahead of time is highly recommended.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: For a spicier relish, add more jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Sweet and tangy: Adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. For a sweeter relish, add a tablespoon or two more sugar. If you prefer a more tart relish, reduce the sugar.
- Add herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or oregano can add a delicious aromatic dimension. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Different peppers: Experiment with different types of peppers for varied flavors and heat levels. Poblano peppers, for instance, provide a mild and earthy flavor.
- Make it chunky or smooth: For a chunky relish, leave the vegetables coarsely chopped. For a smoother relish, you can pulse the cooked mixture briefly in a food processor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 50-60
- Carbohydrates: 10-12g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 2-3g
This pepper and onion relish is a versatile and delicious addition to your culinary repertoire. It's a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!