Description
Add a burst of tangy sweetness to your meals with this Simple Sweet Zucchini Relish. Whether you’re topping burgers, enhancing sandwiches, or elevating grilled dishes, this easy-to-make relish is the perfect condiment to have on hand. With fresh zucchinis, vibrant spices, and a straightforward canning process, it’s a delightful way to preserve the flavors of summer!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 cups shredded unpeeled zucchini
- 4 cups chopped onion
- 5 tablespoons canning salt
- 6 cups white sugar
- 2 ½ cups white vinegar
- 1 chopped red bell pepper
- 1 chopped green bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 ½ teaspoons celery seed
- ¾ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¾ teaspoon ground turmeric
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
For Canning
- 7 sterilized 1-pint jars
- Large stockpot for water bath
- Jar holder
Instructions
Prep the Zucchini Mixture
- Combine shredded zucchini and chopped onion in a large bowl. Sprinkle with canning salt and mix thoroughly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate overnight to release excess moisture.
2. Rinse and Drain
- Drain the zucchini mixture in a colander and rinse under cool water to remove excess salt.
- Squeeze out as much liquid as possible and set aside.
3. Make the Relish Base
- In a large pot, combine sugar, vinegar, red and green bell peppers, cornstarch, celery seed, nutmeg, turmeric, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Add the drained zucchini and onion mixture to the pot.
4. Cook the Relish
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Sterilize the Jars
- While the relish simmers, sterilize the jars and lids using a boiling water bath or dishwasher sterilization setting.
- Keep the jars warm until ready to use.
6. Pack the Jars
- Ladle the hot relish into the sterilized jars, leaving ½ inch of headspace.
- Remove any air bubbles by running a knife along the inside of each jar. Wipe the rims clean and screw on the lids.
7. Process in a Water Bath
- Place a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill it halfway with boiling water.
- Lower the jars into the pot, ensuring they’re covered by at least 2 inches of water.
- Bring the water to a full boil, cover, and process for 30 minutes.
8. Cool and Store
- Carefully remove the jars and place them on a towel-lined surface to cool.
- Check the seals once cooled—press the center of each lid; it should not move. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year.
Notes
- For a spicier relish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking.
- Yellow squash can be substituted for zucchini for a slightly sweeter flavor.
- Ensure jars are properly sealed to prevent spoilage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Canning
- Cuisine: American