Grandma’s Classic Zucchini Relish Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Zucchini: Fresh, tender zucchini is key for this relish. If you’re out of zucchini, yellow squash works as a good substitute. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious!

Onion: I use yellow onions for a mild flavor. If you prefer something sharper, red onions could work too! If you need a milder taste, green onions are a nice alternative.

Bell Peppers: The mix of green and red bell peppers adds color and sweetness. You could replace them with other sweet peppers, or even use jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Sugar: This relish has a sweet base. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using honey or a sugar substitute like stevia, keeping in mind that the flavor will slightly change.

Vinegar: I always reach for white vinegar because it has a clean taste. Apple cider vinegar is a great alternative and adds a fruity note, but it will change the relish’s flavor profile a bit.

How Do I Get the Right Consistency for My Relish?

Getting the texture just right is essential. First, salting the veggies pulls out excess moisture, which helps prevent a soggy relish. Make sure to press out as much liquid as you can after the resting time—don’t skip that rinsing step either! It helps remove excess salt and keeps the flavors balanced.

• Let the zucchini and veggies sit with salt for 2 hours to enhance flavor and draw out moisture.
• After draining, press gently to eliminate extra liquid while rinsing to wash away any bitterness from the salt.
• Simmer the mixture to help meld the flavors without overcooking the veggies.

Following these tips will help you achieve the perfect consistency for your relish, making it a fantastic addition to any dish! Enjoy making Grandma’s Classic Zucchini Relish!

Grandma’s Classic Zucchini Relish

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Relish:

• 6 cups finely chopped zucchini (about 3 medium zucchinis)
• 1 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
• 1 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
• 2 tablespoons salt
• 1 1/2 cups white sugar
• 2 teaspoons mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon celery seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 cup white vinegar (5% acidity)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time plus 2 hours for the vegetables to sit and draw out moisture. After cooking, you’ll need another 10 minutes for processing in a water bath. Allowing the relish to age for at least 1 to 2 weeks enhances the flavors beautifully, but you can enjoy it any time after it’s cooled!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

In a large bowl, mix the chopped zucchini, onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Add the salt and stir well to combine. Cover the bowl and let it sit at room temperature for about 2 hours. This process helps to draw out excess moisture from the veggies, making sure your relish won’t be too watery.

2. Drain and Rinse:

After 2 hours, pour the vegetable mixture into a colander to drain. Gently press the vegetables to remove as much liquid as possible. Then, rinse the mixture under cold running water to wash away excess salt. Let it drain thoroughly for best results.

3. Make the Syrup:

In a large saucepan, combine the white sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric powder, and white vinegar. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar fully dissolves. The aroma will be heavenly!

4. Combine the Vegetables:

Once the syrup is boiling, add the drained vegetable mixture into the saucepan. Stir well and bring the mixture back to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help blend all the flavors together.

5. Jar the Relish:

While the mixture is still hot, ladle the relish into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace. Make sure to wipe the rims of the jars clean to ensure a good seal. Then, place lids on the jars and process them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This step is important for preserving the relish.

6. Cool and Store:

After processing, take the jars out of the hot water and let them cool completely at room temperature. Store your jars in a cool, dark place. The flavors of the relish will deepen and improve after 1 to 2 weeks, but once opened, keep it refrigerated.

Enjoy your homemade classic zucchini relish on burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, or just with crackers for a tasty snack! It’s a burst of summer in every bite!

FAQ About Grandma’s Classic Zucchini Relish

Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?

Absolutely! While zucchini is the star of this relish, you can add or substitute other vegetables such as yellow squash, carrots, or even cucumbers. Just chop them finely to maintain the texture.

How Long Can I Store This Relish?

Once sealed and stored properly, this zucchini relish can last for up to a year in a cool, dark place. However, once opened, it’s best to refrigerate it and consume within 2-3 weeks for optimal flavor and freshness.

Can I Reduce the Sugar in This Recipe?

Yes, you can definitely reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet relish. Just keep in mind that sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps with preservation and texture, so lowering it too much might affect the consistency and shelf life.

What’s the Best Way to Serve Zucchini Relish?

This tangy-sweet relish is versatile! It’s great as a condiment on burgers, hot dogs, or sandwiches. You can also serve it as a snack on crackers, or use it as a flavorful topping for grilled meats or fish. Enjoy it however you like!