This relish hits that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy. It’s like summer in a jar. Whether you’re spooning it over grilled chicken or folding it into cream cheese for a cracker spread, it has that wow factor that makes people ask, “What is that?”In this guide, I’m sharing my go-to recipe for red pepper relish, breaking down the steps for beginners and throwing in personal tips, fun comparisons, and a few surprises. Grab a pepper (or ten), and let’s dive in.
What Is Red Pepper Relish And Why Everyone Should Be Talking About It
Red pepper relish is a chunky, tangy condiment made from red bell peppers, onions, vinegar, and sugar. Think of it like the cousin of chutney—sweeter than salsa but more robust than jam. It brings color, depth, and personality to any dish.
What I love most is its versatility. Spread it on a burger. Mix it into scrambled eggs. Stir it into cream cheese for a last-minute appetizer (seriously, people will think you’re a genius). It also stores beautifully, which makes it a favorite during harvest season when your pepper plants are practically begging to be used.
You may have tried something like the famous Harry and David red pepper and onion relish. That version has a cult following for good reason. It’s sweet, a bit smoky, and full of body. But the beauty of making your own is that you can adjust everything—spice level, sweetness, even texture—to your liking. Want a hot red pepper relish? Toss in a jalapeño or two and boom, your bland grilled cheese becomes legendary.
Whether you're preserving your garden haul or looking for a homemade gift that actually gets used, red pepper relish is the unsung hero of the pantry.
The Easiest Red Pepper Relish Recipe For Beginners (No Experience Needed)
If you can chop veggies and stir a pot, you’ve already won half the battle. Making red pepper relish is surprisingly simple, but the flavor payoff is enormous. Here’s the beginner-friendly version I swear by.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Red bell peppers | 6 medium |
| Yellow onions | 2 large |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 ½ cups |
| White sugar | 1 ½ cups |
| Salt | 1 tbsp |
| Crushed red pepper | ½ tsp (optional, for heat) |
You can tweak this to resemble a hot red pepper relish by adding a chopped habanero or jalapeño.