sweet pickle relish recipe
The Best sweet pickle relish recipe
I also appreciate how easy it is to customize—you can adjust the sweetness or spice level to suit whatever you’re serving. It’s great for meal prep because it keeps well for weeks, so you can make a big batch and have it ready whenever you need it. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get more veggies into your diet without anyone noticing. My family loves it because it’s always there, ready to brighten up any dish, and it’s one of those things that feels like a little extra effort that pays off every time. Whether it’s for a barbecue, a picnic, or just a simple lunch, this relish makes everything feel a little more special.
Classic Sweet Pickle Relish
A tangy, sweet relish perfect for sandwiches, burgers, and charcuterie boards. This homemade version balances bright vinegar with caramelized onions and raisins for a rich, flavorful bite.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup pitted raisins
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp whole cloves
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 1 cup chopped green bell peppers
- 1 cup chopped red bell peppers
- 1 jalapeño, seeds removed, finely chopped
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Slice the onion thinly and set aside. In a large pot, combine sugar, vinegar, water, raisins, mustard seeds, cloves, and peppercorns. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. -
2
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly. -
3
Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and solids, then return it to the pot. Stir in the sliced onion until fully coated. -
4
Add the chopped bell peppers and jalapeño. Stir well and let the relish cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Fine-mesh strainer
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Sweet Pickle Relish Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet Pickle Relish
1. What is the best way to store homemade sweet pickle relish?
Keep your relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze portions in single-serving containers for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
2. Can I make this relish without the dill?
Absolutely. If you prefer a milder flavor, skip the dill and add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for depth instead. The sweetness and tang from the vinegar and sugar will still shine.
3. Is this relish suitable for canning?
This recipe is not ideal for canning because it relies on a mix of sweet and tangy flavors that don’t lend themselves to the high heat and pressure required for shelf-stable storage. If you’re looking for a canned version, consider a simpler, vinegar-based relish without added sugar.
4. How do I adjust the sweetness if I prefer it less sweet?
Reduce the sugar by half (about ½ cup instead of 1 cup) and balance it with a slight increase in vinegar (½ cup instead of ¾ cup). Taste as you go, adding a little more vinegar or a dash of mustard powder if needed to enhance the tang without overpowering the sweetness.
