Dill pickle relish is one of those classic condiments that can elevate everything from hot dogs and burgers to potato salads and sandwiches. Making your own dill pickle relish at home is easier than you might think, and it gives you the freedom to customize the flavors just the way you like. Plus, homemade relish is free from preservatives and additives found in store-bought versions. Ready to dive into the tangy, crunchy world of dill pickle relish? Let’s get started!
What Is Dill Pickle Relish?
Dill pickle relish is a finely chopped mixture of pickled cucumbers flavored with dill, garlic, onions, and other spices. It’s tangy, slightly sweet, and packed with that unmistakable dill flavor that pickle lovers crave. Unlike sweet pickle relish, dill pickle relish leans more on the savory and herbaceous side, making it perfect for those who love a bold, fresh taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make dill pickle relish, you’ll need a handful of fresh ingredients and pantry staples. Here’s a typical list:
– Fresh cucumbers (about 2½ pounds, peeled and finely diced)
– 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
– 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced (optional for color and sweetness)
– 1 small green bell pepper, finely diced (optional)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– ¼ cup kosher or pickling salt (important to avoid additives)
– 3 cups white vinegar (or cider vinegar for a milder flavor)
– ½ cup sugar (adjust to taste or omit for less sweetness)
– 2 teaspoons dill seeds (or fresh dill weed for a brighter flavor)
– 1 tablespoon yellow mustard seeds
– 2 teaspoons celery seeds
– ½ teaspoon turmeric (for color and subtle earthiness)
– 2 bay leaves (optional)
These ingredients combine to create that classic dill pickle relish flavor with a nice balance of tang, sweetness, and spice.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Dill Pickle Relish
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Start by peeling the cucumbers to remove the tough skin, then slice them lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Next, finely dice the cucumber flesh into small pieces. Do the same with the onion, garlic, and bell peppers if using. You can use a knife or a food processor, but be careful not to turn the veggies into mush.
2. Salt and Soak
Place the diced cucumbers, onions, peppers, and garlic in a large bowl. Sprinkle the kosher salt over the mixture and cover with cold water until everything is submerged. Let it sit for at least 6 hours or overnight. This step draws out excess moisture and helps the vegetables stay crisp.
3. Rinse and Drain
After soaking, drain the vegetables in a colander and rinse thoroughly with cold water to remove excess salt. Drain again well to remove as much moisture as possible.
4. Make the Pickling Brine
In a large stockpot, combine the vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, dill seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. This flavorful brine is the heart of your relish.
5. Cook the Relish
Add the drained vegetable mixture to the boiling brine. Bring it back to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes. This cooks the vegetables slightly while allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove and discard the bay leaves.
6. Jar and Preserve
Ladle the hot relish into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ to ½ inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean and seal with lids. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure safe preservation. Once cooled, check the seals and store in a cool, dark place. The relish will taste best after sitting for at least a week to let the flavors develop fully.
Tips for Perfect Dill Pickle Relish
– Use fresh, firm cucumbers: Pickling cucumbers are ideal, but regular cucumbers work well if peeled and seeded.
– Don’t skip the soaking: This step keeps your relish crisp and prevents it from becoming soggy.
– Adjust sweetness: Start with less sugar and add more if you prefer a sweeter relish.
– Customize spices: Feel free to add fresh dill weed or adjust mustard and celery seeds to your taste.
– Store properly: Always use sterilized jars and follow canning guidelines for safe long-term storage.
How to Enjoy Your Homemade Dill Pickle Relish
Dill pickle relish is incredibly versatile! Here are some tasty ways to use it:
– Spread on hot dogs and hamburgers for a tangy crunch.
– Stir into potato or pasta salads for extra flavor.
– Mix into tuna or chicken salad sandwiches.
– Use as a topping for deviled eggs.
– Add to dips or sauces for a zesty twist.
Why Make Your Own Dill Pickle Relish?
Making dill pickle relish at home is rewarding and fun. You control the ingredients, so you can avoid preservatives and tailor the flavor to your liking. Plus, homemade relish keeps well for months when canned properly, giving you a delicious condiment ready whenever you need it.
Making dill pickle relish is a simple process that brings big flavor to your table. With fresh ingredients, a few spices, and a little patience, you can create a tangy, crunchy relish that beats anything from the store. So grab some cucumbers and get pickling!