Are you looking for a vibrant and flavorful condiment to elevate your meals? Look no further! This sweet and hot pepper relish recipe is incredibly easy to make, bursting with fresh flavors, and perfect for adding a zing to everything from grilled meats and tacos to sandwiches and eggs. It’s a homemade cooking triumph that's ready in minutes and will quickly become a staple in your refrigerator. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or simply a delicious addition to their healthy meals. Get ready to experience a delightful dance of sweet and spicy sensations!
Ingredients:
- 2 large red bell peppers, finely chopped
- 1 large green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 red jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the peppers: Wash and finely chop all the peppers. Remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño for less heat, or leave them in for a spicier relish. Finely chop the red onion.
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Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped peppers, red onion, vinegar, sugar, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
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Simmer the relish: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the relish has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Cool and store: Remove the relish from the heat and let it cool completely. Once cooled, transfer the relish to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. This step enhances the overall taste, resulting in a more delicious and well-balanced relish.
Tips for the Best Sweet and Hot Pepper Relish:
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Adjust the heat: Control the spice level by adjusting the amount of jalapeño pepper or by removing the seeds and membranes. For a milder relish, use a milder pepper like a poblano.
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Don't overcook: Overcooking can result in a mushy relish. Aim for tender-crisp peppers.
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Make it your own: Feel free to experiment with other ingredients! Add a pinch of oregano, a diced carrot, or some chopped cilantro for extra flavor.
Variations:
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Mango Habanero Relish: Substitute mango chunks for one of the bell peppers and use habanero peppers instead of jalapeños for an extra kick.
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Roasted Pepper Relish: Roast the peppers before chopping for a smoky flavor. Simply roast them over an open flame or in the oven until the skin is blackened.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 50-60
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-12g
- Protein: Approximately 1g
- Fat: Approximately 2-3g
This sweet and hot pepper relish is a fantastic addition to any meal. Its versatility makes it a perfect accompaniment to various dishes, showcasing its exceptional flavor profile and contributing to a well-rounded culinary experience. From enhancing the taste of grilled meats to adding a vibrant touch to your favorite sandwiches, this relish is sure to become a culinary staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!