Spicy Tomato Relish Canning Recipe: A Zesty Delight for the Spice Enthusiast
Description
Embrace the vibrant flavors of the Southwestern United States with this Spicy Tomato Relish, a condiment that not only enhances your culinary creations but also celebrates the region’s love for heat. This relish is exceptionally versatile, making it a perfect pairing for grilled meats, tacos, or even as a unique side dish to elevate your meal experience. For those seeking an extra kick, consider substituting with additional jalapeños or opting for fiery habaneros. With this recipe, you’ll be equipped to create a tantalizing relish that boasts both flavor and a delightful punch.
Please note: This recipe assumes you possess knowledge of safe water bath canning methods to ensure the preservation of your relish.
Ingredients and Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes | 20 |
| Onions | 1 ½ |
| Green Pepper | ¾ |
| Celery Seeds | ¼ teaspoon |
| Pickling Salt | 2 tablespoons |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground Clove | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground Allspice | ¾ teaspoon |
| Ground Ginger | ¾ teaspoon |
| Vinegar | ¾ cup |
| Crushed Red Pepper Flakes | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 50.8 |
| Total Fat | 0.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 171.7 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 11.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.4 g |
| Sugars | 9.9 g |
| Protein | 0.9 g |
Cooking Times
| Preparation Time | Cooking Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 30 minutes | 2 hours | 2 hours 30 minutes |
Instructions
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Prepare the Tomatoes: Begin by peeling the tomatoes, which can be effortlessly accomplished using the boiling water method. To do this, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully dip each tomato into the boiling water for about 30 seconds, then immediately transfer them to a pot filled with cold water. This quick temperature change will allow the skins to slip off easily, revealing the juicy flesh underneath. Once peeled, set the tomatoes aside.
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Combine the Ingredients: In a large, preferably non-stick pot, combine the peeled tomatoes with the remaining ingredients, which include finely chopped onions, diced green pepper, celery seeds, pickling salt, ground cinnamon, ground clove, ground allspice, ground ginger, vinegar, crushed red pepper flakes, and sugar. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure that all ingredients are well incorporated.
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Simmer the Mixture: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook, stirring occasionally, to achieve your desired thickness. This process may take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on how thick you want your relish. Keep a close eye on the pot to prevent sticking and burning at the bottom.
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Jar the Relish: Once the relish has reached your desired consistency, it’s time to jar it up. Carefully spoon the hot relish into sterilized pint jars, filling each jar to within ¼ inch of the top to ensure proper sealing. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any residue that could interfere with the sealing process.
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Seal and Process: Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until they are fingertip-tight. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring that your relish is preserved safely and can be stored at room temperature.
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Cool and Store: Once the processing time is complete, carefully remove the jars from the water bath and allow them to cool completely on a clean towel or cooling rack. As the jars cool, you may hear a satisfying “ping” sound, indicating that they have sealed properly. Once cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place. This spicy tomato relish can be enjoyed for up to a year, providing a delicious kick to your meals throughout the seasons.
This Spicy Tomato Relish is not just a recipe; it’s an opportunity to create a flavorful staple that will spice up any dish. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, adding a zesty layer to your favorite sandwich, or simply indulging in a spoonful straight from the jar, this relish is sure to impress. Enjoy the satisfaction of preserving your own culinary delights, and savor the rich, spicy flavors that this delightful condiment brings to your table. Happy canning!
