Pickled Pepper Onion Relish

Byarlo Jack

Pickled Pepper Onion Relish is a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy condiment that elevates sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, and grilled meats. The combination of crisp peppers, onions, and a bright pickling brine creates a vibrant flavor that adds crunch and zest to any dish. This relish is quick to prepare, keeps well, and is a versatile addition to your kitchen pantry.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This relish is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and adds an instant flavor boost to a variety of dishes. The pickling process enhances the natural crunch of the peppers and onions, creating a versatile topping that keeps well in the fridge.

Nutritional Info

Pickled relishes are low in calories and fat, but high in flavor. Peppers provide vitamin C, while onions add antioxidants. The vinegar in the brine supports digestion and adds tang without adding extra calories.

Time Taken

From start to finish, the relish takes about 20–25 minutes to prepare, including slicing and pickling time. It’s ready to use almost immediately but improves in flavor after a few hours in the fridge.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup red bell peppers, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup green bell peppers, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup white vinegar
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Combine vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring until sugar dissolves. Place sliced peppers and onions in a heatproof jar or bowl. Pour the hot brine over the vegetables, ensuring they are fully submerged. Stir in red pepper flakes if using.

Let the relish cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For best flavor, allow to chill overnight. Serve as a topping for sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, grilled meats, or even tacos.

You Must Know

Slice the peppers and onions thinly to ensure quick pickling and even flavor absorption. The relish keeps for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator, but flavor is best within the first week.

Storage Tips

Store in an airtight jar or container in the fridge. Always use a clean utensil when serving to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Use different colored bell peppers or hot peppers for variety and heat.
  • Substitute red wine vinegar or rice vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile.
  • Add garlic cloves or fresh herbs like thyme or dill for added complexity.

Serving Suggestions

  • Top burgers, hot dogs, or sandwiches for a tangy crunch.
  • Serve alongside grilled or roasted meats.
  • Mix into potato or pasta salads for a flavor boost.

Cultural and Historical Context

Pickled condiments have been a staple in many cuisines for centuries, valued for preserving vegetables and adding bright, tangy flavor. This type of relish is common in Southern and American cuisine, often enhancing barbecue dishes, sandwiches, and comfort foods.

Seasonal Adaptations

Use fresh, in-season peppers in summer for vibrant flavor. In fall and winter, incorporate sweeter bell peppers or slightly spicier varieties for a warming, tangy addition to meals.

Success Stories

Many home cooks report that this relish transforms ordinary dishes into bold, flavorful meals. It’s particularly praised for how easy it is to prepare and how long the flavor lasts in the fridge.

Pro Tips

  • Slice vegetables uniformly for even pickling.
  • Adjust sugar and vinegar to balance sweetness and tang to your preference.
  • Use a jar with a tight-fitting lid to prevent odors in the fridge.

Chef’s Special Tips

For extra depth, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a few mustard seeds to the brine. Serve chilled for a refreshing crunch or slightly warm for a mellowed, savory flavor.

Conclusion

Pickled Pepper Onion Relish is a simple, versatile condiment that brings bright, tangy flavor to a wide variety of dishes. With its sweet, spicy, and crisp profile, it’s perfect for sandwiches, grilled meats, and more. Make a batch today and elevate your meals with this quick and flavorful relish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of peppers?
Yes, you can use bell peppers of any color, or add hot peppers for extra spice. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes for desired heat.

How long does the relish last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it keeps up to 2 weeks. Flavor is best within the first week.

Do I have to cook the brine?
Yes, heating the vinegar, sugar, and salt dissolves the sugar and helps the flavors meld quickly.

Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, thinly sliced carrots, cucumbers, or jalapeños can be added for variety and extra crunch.

Can I make this relish ahead of time?
Absolutely, it’s best if made a few hours ahead or overnight to allow the flavors to develop.

Is this relish gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure vinegar and seasonings are certified gluten-free if needed.

Can I adjust sweetness or tanginess?
Yes, add more sugar for sweetness or more vinegar for extra tang to suit your taste.

Should I slice the vegetables thinly?
Yes, thin slices absorb the brine faster and result in a crisp, flavorful relish.

Can I use this relish as a side dish?
Yes, it works as a topping or as a tangy side condiment for grilled meats, tacos, or salads.

Do I need to refrigerate the relish?
Yes, refrigerate in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor.