Tomato relish – that vibrant, tangy condiment that elevates everything from burgers and hot dogs to grilled cheese sandwiches and eggs. But store-bought relish often falls short. This guide will show you how to make your own homemade tomato relish, bursting with fresh flavor and customizable to your taste. Making it is easier than you think!
Ingredients for the Perfect Tomato Relish
The beauty of homemade tomato relish lies in its adaptability. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences. Here's a basic recipe to get you started:
- 4 pounds ripe tomatoes: Choose tomatoes that are flavorful and slightly firm. Roma tomatoes work well, but any variety will do.
- 1 large onion: Yellow or white onions are classic choices. Red onion adds a sharper bite.
- 1 green bell pepper: Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch.
- 1 red bell pepper: For extra color and flavor.
- 2 cups white vinegar: Distilled white vinegar is ideal.
- 1 cup sugar: Granulated sugar works best. You can adjust the amount to your sweetness preference.
- 2 tablespoons salt: This helps to draw out moisture and preserve the relish.
- 1 tablespoon celery seed: Provides a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 teaspoon mustard seed: Adds a subtle, peppery bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric: Adds a beautiful golden color and a slightly earthy flavor. (Optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a little heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your Tomato Relish
Follow these simple steps to create a batch of your own delicious tomato relish:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash and chop all your vegetables. Finely dice the onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. The smaller the pieces, the better the relish's texture will be.
2. Combine Ingredients in a Large Pot:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the diced tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, vinegar, sugar, salt, celery seed, mustard seed, turmeric (if using), black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Simmer the Relish:
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 30-45 minutes, or until the relish has thickened and the tomatoes have softened considerably. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Sterilize Jars (Important for Long-Term Storage):
- While the relish simmers, sterilize your jars and lids by washing them in hot, soapy water, then rinsing and placing them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This prevents spoilage.
5. Fill and Seal Jars:
- Carefully ladle the hot relish into the sterilized jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean, place the lids and rings on tightly, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (for pint jars). Adjust processing time according to your jar size.
6. Cool and Store:
- Remove the jars from the boiling water bath and let them cool completely. You should hear a "pop" sound as the jars seal. Check to make sure all jars are properly sealed. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Unsealed jars should be refrigerated and used within a week.
Tips for the Best Tomato Relish
- Taste and Adjust: Throughout the simmering process, taste the relish and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want more sugar, vinegar, or spice.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add other spices like ginger, garlic powder, or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a unique twist.
- Consider Adding Other Vegetables: Include diced carrots, zucchini, or jalapeños for added texture and flavor.
- Make it Chunky or Smooth: For a chunkier relish, simply chop the vegetables coarsely. For a smoother consistency, you can puree the relish using an immersion blender or food processor after it has simmered.
With this detailed guide, you're well on your way to creating a delicious and unforgettable homemade tomato relish. Enjoy!
