Sweet Pickle Relish

Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 35 min
Servings: 180
Yield: 180 servings

Description

This chunky sweet relish made with cucumbers, onions, and bell peppers is a tasty topping for hot dogs, or try some mixed into macaroni salad!

Ingredients

8 medium cucumbers, chopped
2 medium onions, chopped
1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
1/2 cup pickling salt
2 cups cider vinegar
1 tablespoon celery seed
1 tablespoon mustard seed
3 1/2 cups white sugar

Directions

1 Combine cucumbers, onions, and bell peppers in a large bowl. Add pickling salt, then pour in enough cold water to cover vegetables. Let soak for 2 hours. Thoroughly drain in a colander.
2 Inspect six pint-sized jars for cracks and rings for rust, discarding any defective ones. Immerse in simmering water until relish is ready. Wash new, unused lids and rings in warm soapy water.
3 Pour vinegar into a large, heavy stainless steel pot; add celery seed and mustard seed. Stir in sugar and bring to a boil; continue stirring until sugar is dissolved, 2 to 3 minutes. Add drained vegetables and return to a boil; this could take up to 10 minutes. Remove from the heat.
4 Pack relish into hot, sterilized jars, filling to within 1/4 inch of the top. Run a clean knife or thin spatula around the insides of the jars to remove any air bubbles. Wipe the rims with a moist paper towel to remove any residue. Top with lids and screw rings on tightly.
5 Place a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill halfway with water. Bring to a boil and lower jars 2 inches apart into the boiling water using a holder. Pour in more boiling water to cover jars by at least 1 inch. Bring to a rolling boil, cover, and process for 10 minutes.
6 Remove the jars from the stockpot and let rest, several inches apart, for 12 to 24 hours. Press the center of each lid with a finger to ensure the lid does not move up or down. Remove the rings for storage and store in a cool, dark area.