Delicious Banana Pepper Relish: A Quick Recipe for Any Meal

Banana pepper relish is a tangy, slightly sweet condiment that adds a delightful burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. Made from banana peppers, which are known for their mild heat and bright flavor, this relish offers a great way to preserve the peppers while adding a versatile condiment to your pantry. This recipe is perfect for those who love homemade preserves and want to try their hand at making a tasty relish from scratch.

Relish has been a staple in many kitchens for centuries, and for good reason. It’s a fantastic way to enhance the flavors of sandwiches, burgers, and even salads. Banana pepper relish, with its unique combination of sweetness and tang, provides a delicious contrast to savory dishes. This recipe not only lets you enjoy the fresh flavors of banana peppers throughout the year but also makes for an excellent homemade gift.

Ingredients and Preparation of Banana Pepper Relish

Ingredients

To make banana pepper relish, you will need the following ingredients:

• Banana Peppers: 10-12, sliced into rings. Banana peppers are mild and slightly sweet, making them perfect for relish. If you can’t find banana peppers, you can substitute with other mild peppers like poblano or Anaheim.
• Red Bell Pepper: 1, diced. This adds a touch of sweetness and color to the relish.
• Onion: 1 cup, finely chopped. Onion provides a nice depth of flavor.
• Vinegar: 1 cup, either white or apple cider. Vinegar adds acidity, which is crucial for both flavor and preservation.
• Sugar: 1 cup. Sugar balances the acidity and enhances the overall flavor.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon. Salt enhances the flavors and acts as a preservative.
• Mustard Seeds: 1/2 teaspoon. These add a subtle tangy flavor.
• Turmeric: 1/2 teaspoon. Turmeric gives the relish a vibrant yellow color and adds an earthy flavor.
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon. Adds a bit of heat and complexity.
• Celery Seed: 1/2 teaspoon. Provides a distinct, slightly bitter flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• Garlic Powder: 1/4 teaspoon. Adds a hint of garlic without overpowering the relish.

Preparation

1. Prepare the Peppers: Begin by wearing gloves to protect your hands from the pepper’s natural oils. Slice the banana peppers into rings and remove the seeds. For a milder relish, make sure to remove as many seeds as possible. Dice the red bell pepper and finely chop the onion.
2. Sterilize Jars: Proper sterilization of your canning jars is essential to prevent spoilage. Place the jars and lids in a large pot of boiling water for 10 minutes or run them through a dishwasher cycle. This step ensures that any bacteria or impurities are eliminated.

Cooking and Canning Process of Banana Pepper Relish

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, mix the vinegar, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, turmeric, black pepper, celery seed, and garlic powder. Bring this mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to ensure the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. The boiling process helps to blend the flavors and dissolve the sugar.
2. Add Vegetables: Once the vinegar mixture is boiling, add the sliced banana peppers, diced red bell pepper, and chopped onion to the pot. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes. This cooking time allows the vegetables to soften and the flavors to meld together.
3. Fill Jars: Carefully ladle the hot relish into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. This space is necessary to create a proper seal and to accommodate any expansion that might occur during processing. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any residue that could interfere with sealing.
4. 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 10 minutes. The boiling water bath ensures that the relish is properly sealed and helps to kill any remaining bacteria.
5. Cool and Store: After processing, let the jars cool completely on a clean towel or cooling rack. Check the seals by pressing down in the center of each lid. If the lid doesn’t pop back, the jar has sealed correctly. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. The relish will be ready to enjoy after about 2 weeks, allowing the flavors to fully develop.

Uses of Banana Pepper Relish

Banana pepper relish can be enjoyed in numerous ways:

• As a topping on hot dogs or burgers
• Mixed with cream cheese as a dip for crackers
• Added to sandwiches or wraps for extra flavor
• Used as an ingredient in marinades or dressings

Nutritional Information

Generally low in calories but high in flavor, banana pepper relish provides a unique way to enjoy vegetables while adding zest to meals without excessive calories or fat.

Banana pepper relish is a delightful and versatile condiment that can elevate many dishes with its unique blend of sweetness, tang, and mild heat. By following this detailed recipe and canning process, you can create a delicious homemade relish that not only preserves the flavors of banana peppers but also adds a personal touch to your meals.

Whether you’re an experienced canner or a beginner looking to try something new, this recipe provides a straightforward approach to making and preserving relish. Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade preserves and share this flavorful treat with friends and family. With its vibrant taste and vibrant color, banana pepper relish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

FAQ 

What are Banana Peppers?

Banana peppers are mild, tangy peppers that are typically yellow or green. They are known for their slightly sweet and tangy flavor, making them ideal for pickling and relishing. Despite their name, they are not particularly hot, which makes them a great option for those who prefer a milder taste.

Can I Use Other Types of Peppers?

Yes, you can substitute banana peppers with other mild peppers such as poblano or Anaheim peppers. However, the flavor of the relish may change slightly depending on the type of peppers used.

How Long Will the Relish Last?

When properly canned and stored in a cool, dark place, banana pepper relish can last up to a year. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and used within 2-3 weeks.

What Can I Use Banana Pepper Relish For?

Banana pepper relish is a versatile condiment that pairs well with a variety of dishes. It’s great on burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and even salads. It can also be used as a topping for grilled meats or as an ingredient in recipes where you want to add a tangy, sweet flavor.

Can I Adjust the Spice Level?

Yes, you can adjust the spice level to your liking. If you prefer a spicier relish, you can add a few hot peppers or red pepper flakes. Conversely, if you want to keep it milder, you can reduce the amount of black pepper or skip the mustard seeds.

What If I Don’t Have Canning Jars?

If you don’t have canning jars, you can store the relish in clean, airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will still be delicious but will need to be used within a few weeks as it won’t have the long shelf life of properly canned relish.

Can I Use Fresh Ingredients?

Yes, using fresh ingredients is ideal for making relish. Fresh peppers, onions, and bell peppers will provide the best flavor and texture. If you have access to a garden or local farmer’s market, use those fresh ingredients for the best results.

How Do I Know If My Jars Are Sealed Properly?

After processing, check the seals by pressing down in the center of each lid. If the lid does not pop back up and is firmly sealed, the jar is properly sealed. If the lid pops back up, the jar did not seal correctly and should be refrigerated and used within a few weeks.