Rhubarb Relish

Why Make This Recipe

Rhubarb relish is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that enhances any meal. It’s a great way to use fresh rhubarb, especially during its peak season. This relish pairs wonderfully with meats, sandwiches, or can even be enjoyed on its own. Making this relish is not only easy but also allows you to create a tasty condiment that brightens up your dishes.

How to Make Rhubarb Relish

Ingredients:

• 4 cups rhubarb, chopped into small pieces
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
• 1 cup brown sugar (lightly packed)
• 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup raisins (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 tsp mustard seeds
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Directions:

1. In a large saucepan, combine rhubarb, onion, bell pepper, sugar, and vinegar.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add raisins (if using), mustard seeds, ginger, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
4. Continue simmering for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and jammy.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Allow to cool before transferring to jars.
7. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

How to Serve Rhubarb Relish

Rhubarb relish is versatile. You can serve it with grilled meats, like chicken or pork. It also goes well on sandwiches, especially with turkey or ham. For a refreshing twist, try it as a topping on cream cheese crackers or as an accompaniment to cheese platters.

How to Store Rhubarb Relish

After making your rhubarb relish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to jars. Seal the jars tightly and store them in the refrigerator. Your relish will stay fresh for up to two weeks in the fridge.

Tips to Make Rhubarb Relish

• Make sure to chop the rhubarb into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Stir the mixture occasionally while it simmers to prevent sticking.
• If you prefer a sweeter relish, consider adding more sugar or raisins to taste.
• Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. Adding more ginger or cinnamon can provide a nice twist.

Variation

If you want to experiment, you can add different fruits like strawberries or apples for a fruity twist. You can also try using different types of vinegar for unique flavor combinations, such as white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar.

FAQs

1. Can I can rhubarb relish for long-term storage?
Yes, you can preserve rhubarb relish using water bath canning methods. Ensure to follow safe canning guidelines for best results.

2. What can I substitute for sugar in this recipe?
You can use honey or maple syrup as alternatives to sugar. However, adjust the amounts as they have different levels of sweetness.

3. How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, increase the pinch of red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños while simmering. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.