Amish Sweet Pepper Relish – Old-Fashioned Jar
Amish Sweet Pepper Relish is a classic, old-fashioned condiment that has been a staple in American kitchens for generations. This tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy relish combines colorful bell peppers, onions, and a blend of warming spices, preserving the vibrant flavors of summer peppers for year-round enjoyment. Traditionally made in small-batch kitchens, it’s perfect for topping hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, or even mixing into salads and dips. This recipe emphasizes a simple, time-tested approach that balances sweetness and acidity while keeping the texture crisp and the colors bright. Made in jars and canned properly, it’s an ideal gift, pantry staple, or addition to your homemade preserves collection.
Prep time: 20–25 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Canning time (optional): 10 minutes per jar
Total time: about 1 hour
Yield: approximately 4–5 pints
Ingredients
For the Relish
Sweet bell peppers, chopped (red and green): 6 cups
Onions, finely chopped: 2 cups
White vinegar (5% acidity): 2 cups
Granulated sugar: 2 1/2 cups
Canning or pickling salt: 2 teaspoons
Mustard seeds: 2 teaspoons
Celery seeds: 1 teaspoon
Ground turmeric: 1/2 teaspoon
Instructions
Wash and sterilize canning jars and lids by boiling them for 10 minutes or placing them in hot water.
Prepare bell peppers and onions by washing, deseeding (for peppers), and finely chopping.
In a large saucepan, combine vinegar, sugar, and salt. Heat gently until sugar dissolves.
Add mustard seeds, celery seeds, and turmeric to the saucepan, stirring to combine.
Add chopped peppers and onions to the vinegar-sugar-spice mixture. Stir thoroughly.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Test the texture; the vegetables should remain slightly crisp while absorbing the flavors.
Remove from heat and carefully ladle the hot relish into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
Wipe rims, place lids on, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes if storing long-term. Otherwise, allow to cool and store in the refrigerator.
Let jars cool completely, label, and store in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening.
Tips
Use a mix of red and green bell peppers for color contrast and balanced sweetness.
Chop vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and texture.
Taste and adjust sugar or vinegar to your preference for sweetness or tang.
Simmer gently to prevent vegetables from becoming mushy.
Sterilize jars properly to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life.
Leave 1/2 inch headspace in jars for safe canning.
Use a non-reactive pot (stainless steel or enamel) to avoid discoloration.
Cool jars upright and undisturbed to prevent seal issues.
Use fresh spices rather than old or stale for maximum flavor.
Allow the relish to sit for a few days after canning for flavors to meld.
Variations
Add hot chili peppers for a spicier relish.
Substitute apple cider vinegar for white vinegar for a milder flavor.
Include diced celery for extra crunch.
Add a clove of garlic for aromatic depth.
Mix in grated carrot for sweetness and color.
Use honey instead of sugar for a different sweet note.
Incorporate smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
Try yellow bell peppers instead of green for a sweeter profile.
Add a dash of ground ginger or allspice for a warm, spicy twist.
Blend half the mixture for a smoother, jam-like consistency while keeping the other half chunky.
Q&A
How long does this relish last?
Properly canned, it can last 12 months unopened. Refrigerate after opening.
Can I make it without canning?
Yes, store in the fridge for up to 2–3 weeks.
Can I use frozen peppers?
Fresh peppers are best; frozen can become mushy.
Is it sweet or tangy? It balances sweetness with vinegar tang, but you can adjust sugar and vinegar levels.
Can I reduce sugar?
Yes, but reduce gradually to maintain safe preservation.
Do I need to peel peppers?
Not necessary, but remove seeds and membranes.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches to maintain even cooking.
Can I use red onion instead of white?
Yes, red onions work and add color.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, naturally gluten-free ingredients.
Can I gift this?
Absolutely, as long as jars are properly processed and sealed.
Nutrition
(Approximate per 2-tablespoon serving)
Calories: 50
Carbohydrates: 13 g
Sugar: 10 g
Fat: 0 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sodium: 150 mg
Conclusion
Amish Sweet Pepper Relish is a timeless condiment that captures the essence of old-fashioned home cooking. Its vibrant colors, sweet-tangy flavor, and lightly spiced aroma make it a versatile addition to a variety of dishes, from sandwiches to grilled meats. Simple to prepare yet impressive in presentation, this relish is ideal for preserving the taste of summer peppers for the year ahead. With options to customize sweetness, heat, and texture, it remains a flexible and beloved pantry staple. Whether canned for gifts or enjoyed fresh from the fridge, it delivers a perfect balance of flavor, color, and tradition in every jar.