Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Sweet Pepper Relish?
It is a vibrant and flavorful condiment made with a medley of bell peppers, onions, vinegar, and sugar, inspired by the Heinz Successful Pickling Guide.
How many green bell peppers are needed?
The recipe requires 6 medium green bell peppers that have been washed, cored, and seeded.
How many red bell peppers should I use?
You will need 6 medium red bell peppers, washed, cored, and seeded for this recipe.
How many onions are required for the relish?
The recipe calls for 3 medium onions, which should be peeled and chopped.
Can I make this relish spicy?
Yes, you can add 2-4 optional hot chili peppers such as jalapeno, habanero, or serrano to add a kick.
What kind of vinegar is used in this recipe?
This recipe uses 1.5 cups of apple cider vinegar.
How much sugar is added to the relish?
The recipe calls for 1.5 cups of sugar.
What spices are included in the mixture?
The relish is seasoned with 1 tablespoon of mustard seeds and 1 tablespoon of celery seed.
How much garlic is needed?
The recipe requires 2 minced garlic cloves.
What type of salt should I use?
You should use 1 tablespoon of pickling salt.
How should I prepare the vegetables?
Finely chop the peppers and onions together in a food processor or food grinder until they reach a coarse texture.
What size pot is recommended for cooking?
A large 6-8 quart saucepot is recommended to combine and cook the ingredients.
How long should the relish simmer?
After bringing the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes.
How do I know when the relish is finished cooking?
Simmer and stir the mixture until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Do I have to can this relish?
No, if you're not canning, you can simply refrigerate the relish once it is finished cooking.
How much headspace is needed in the canning jars?
Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top when ladling the hot relish into jars.
How do I remove air bubbles from the jars?
Gently run a non-metallic utensil down the sides of the jars before sealing.
How long do I process the jars in a canner?
Process the jars in a boiling water canner for 15 minutes to ensure they are sealed.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 225 calories.
Is there any fat in this relish?
No, this relish contains 0g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 56g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much sugar is in each serving?
There are 52g of sugar per serving.
How much fiber does the relish provide?
Each serving provides 2g of fiber.
What is the protein content?
There is 1g of protein per serving.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Spicy Sweet Pepper Relish is categorized as a vegetarian condiment.
Can I halve the recipe?
Yes, the recipe can easily be halved for a fresh batch to keep in the fridge.
What should I do before putting the lids on?
Wipe the tops and threads of the jars clean to ensure a proper seal.
Where should I store the canned relish?
Store the completely cooled jars in a cool, dark place.
What are some serving suggestions for this relish?
It is a great accompaniment to meats, sandwiches, and cheese platters.
Can this relish be used as a gift?
Yes, it makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.