Zesty Bargain Bin Bell Pepper Cucumber Relish

Recipe: On-Sale Refrigerator Relish 🥒

Prep Time: 24 hours
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 24 hours 15 minutes
Servings: Approximately 1 quart

Description:

Joan Cooney’s recipe for refrigerator pickles #36429 inspired this delicious relish recipe, perfect for those who love pickles and can’t resist a good bargain at the market. With vibrant red and green bell peppers, crisp cucumbers, and a touch of sweet onion, this relish is ideal for burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and more. It’s easy to make and bursting with flavor!

Ingredients:

• 2 red bell peppers
• 2 green bell peppers
• 2 large cucumbers
• 1 sweet onion
• 2 1/2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 3 cups cider vinegar
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons dry mustard
• 2 teaspoons turmeric
• 2 teaspoons celery seeds
• 1 1/2 teaspoons yellow mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Prepare Vegetables: Start by splitting and deseeding the cucumbers, then cut them into chunks. Similarly, chop the sweet onion. Transfer the cucumber and onion into a food processor and pulse until finely chopped.

2. Salt and Refrigerate: Place the chopped cucumber and onion mixture in a container and sprinkle with 2 1/2 tablespoons of kosher salt. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Rinse and Drain: The next morning, rinse the cucumber and onion mixture thoroughly and drain in a colander for about 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.

4. Prepare Bell Peppers: Meanwhile, split and deseed the red and green bell peppers. Chop them into chunks and process in the food processor until finely chopped. Drain the chopped peppers without rinsing.

5. Prepare Pickling Liquid: In a non-reactive pan, combine cider vinegar, sugar, dry mustard, turmeric, celery seeds, yellow mustard seeds, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved.

6. Combine Ingredients: Once the pickling liquid is ready, add the drained chopped bell peppers, cucumber, and onion mixture to the pan. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly softened.

7. Check for Taste: After about 10 minutes of simmering, take a small amount of the relish on a spoon and place it in the freezer for a minute to cool rapidly. Taste the cooled relish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remember, the flavor may differ when hot versus cold.

8. Packaging: Once you’re satisfied with the taste, ladle the hot relish into sterilized jars. You should have a little over a quart of relish.

9. Storage Options: If you prefer to store the relish long-term, you can seal the jars and process them in a hot water bath. Alternatively, simply cap a quart jar and store it in the refrigerator for immediate use.

Enjoy your homemade On-Sale Refrigerator Relish on burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, or any dish that could use a flavorful punch of tangy sweetness! 🍔🥪