Easy Pepper Onion Relish Recipe: 8-Ingredient Guide for Perfect Flavor

Easy Pepper Onion Relish Recipe: 8-Ingredient Guide for Perfect Flavor

Looking for a quick and flavorful way to elevate your meals? This easy pepper onion relish recipe delivers tangy, sweet, and spicy goodness in under 30 minutes. Perfect for burgers, tacos, or as a versatile condiment, it’s simple to make with just 8 ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 2 red bell peppers, finely diced
  • 1 yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 jalapeño (optional, for heat)
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare ingredients: Finely dice bell peppers, onion, and jalapeño (remove seeds for milder heat).
  2. Cook: Combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Simmer: Reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
  4. Cool & Store: Let cool slightly. Transfer to sterilized jars. Refrigerate for up to 6 months.
Homemade Pepper Onion Relish in Jars

Pro Tips for Perfect Relish

  • Adjust heat: Add extra jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for spicier relish. For mild versions, omit jalapeño entirely.
  • Texture control: For chunkier relish, reduce simmering time to 15 minutes. For smoother texture, blend briefly after cooking.
  • Storage hack: Freeze portions in ice cube trays for quick use in sauces or marinades.

How to Use Pepper Onion Relish

Transform ordinary dishes with this versatile condiment:

  • Burgers & Hot Dogs: Top with a spoonful for tangy sweetness.
  • Tacos & Burritos: Mix into salsa or use as a fresh topping.
  • Grilled Meats: Pair with steak, chicken, or pork for added depth.
  • Dips & Spreads: Blend with sour cream or cream cheese for a zesty dip.
  • Pizza: Swap tomato sauce for a layer of relish before adding cheese and toppings.
Common Issues Solutions
Relish too watery Simmer uncovered for 5-10 extra minutes to evaporate excess liquid.
Too sweet Reduce brown sugar to ⅓ cup or add 1 tbsp lemon juice for balance.
Lacks tang Increase vinegar to 1¼ cups or add 1 tsp apple cider vinegar after cooking.

How long does homemade pepper onion relish last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in sterilized jars, homemade pepper onion relish lasts up to 6 months in the refrigerator. Always check for mold or off smells before use.

Can I make this without sugar?

Yes! Substitute brown sugar with ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup. For sugar-free versions, use 1-2 tbsp of stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Note: Sugar-free versions may have a shorter shelf life (3-4 months).

Can I can this relish for shelf-stable storage?

Yes! Process in a water bath canner for 15 minutes (adjust for altitude). Properly canned relish keeps for 12-18 months in a cool, dark place. Always check seals before storing.

Burger Topped with Pepper Onion Relish
Maya Gonzalez

Maya Gonzalez

A Latin American cuisine specialist who has spent a decade researching indigenous spice traditions from Mexico to Argentina. Maya's field research has taken her from remote Andean villages to the coastal communities of Brazil, documenting how pre-Columbian spice traditions merged with European, African, and Asian influences. Her expertise in chili varieties is unparalleled - she can identify over 60 types by appearance, aroma, and heat patterns. Maya excels at explaining the historical and cultural significance behind signature Latin American spice blends like recado rojo and epazote combinations. Her hands-on demonstrations show how traditional preparation methods like dry toasting and stone grinding enhance flavor profiles. Maya is particularly passionate about preserving endangered varieties of local Latin American spices and the traditional knowledge associated with their use.