Easy Corn Relish

Easy Corn Relish is a delightful condiment that packs a punch of flavor while being incredibly easy to prepare. This relish is perfect for adding zest to sandwiches, burgers, or even as a side dish at picnics and barbecues. With its vibrant colors and sweet-tangy taste, Easy Corn Relish stands out among other relishes, making it a must-have for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This relish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy cooks.
• Versatile Uses: Use it as a topping for grilled meats, mix into salads, or enjoy with crackers.
• Canning Friendly: The recipe yields 5 pints, perfect for preserving and enjoying throughout the year.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Sweet corn combines beautifully with tangy vinegar and spices for an exciting taste.
• Healthy Choice: Low in calories and fat, it’s a guilt-free way to enhance your meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Easy Corn Relish, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Canning jars
• Stainless steel pot
• Bubble wand
• Damp cloth
• Canner (hot water bath or steam canner)

Importance of Each Tool

• Canning jars: Essential for storing your relish safely and ensuring proper sealing for long-term storage.
• Stainless steel pot: Non-reactive material that ensures your ingredients maintain their flavors without metallic interference.

Ingredients

A simple relish that will add a fun punch of flavor and texture to all sorts of dishes. This recipe makes 5 pints.

Ingredients:
– 9 c whole kernel corn (fresh or frozen)
– 3 c apple cider vinegar
– 2 c onion (diced)
– 1 c granulated sugar
– 1 c green bell pepper (diced)
– 1/2 c red bell pepper (diced)
– 2 Tb salt
– 1 1/2 Tb celery seed
– 1 1/2 Tb mustard seed

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Easy Corn Relish

Step 1: Prepare Your Canning Supplies

To begin, prepare your canning supplies and pint canning jars. The jars should be warming up while you prepare the relish.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Combine all of the ingredients in a stainless steel pot.

Step 3: Cook the Mixture

Bring the mixture up to a boil, stirring frequently until it reaches boiling point.

Step 4: Simmer the Relish

When the mixture comes to a boil, cover it, reduce the heat, and simmer for 15 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Jar the Relish

Remove the pot from the heat and begin jarring up the relish. Ladle the relish into hot pint-sized canning jars. Allow for a 1/2 inch headspace. Remove bubbles with a bubble wand and adjust contents to return to the 1/2 inch headspace.

Step 6: Seal Jars

Wipe the tops of the jars with a damp cloth dipped in white vinegar.

Step 7: Process Jars

Place the jars in your canner (hot water bath or steam canner) and process them for 15 minutes. (See Note Below.)

Step 8: Cool Down

When the jars have processed, transfer them to a lined surface in a draft-free location. Cool for 12-24 hours.

Step 9: Check Seals

Remove the rings, test the seals, and label the jars. Store them in your pantry for up to a year. If any jars didn’t seal properly, put them in the fridge to use right away.

Step 10: Let It Rest

Allow the relish to rest for at least two weeks before you dig in.

Step 11: Enjoy!

Enjoy this flavorful Easy Corn Relish on everything from tacos to grilled meats!

How to Serve Easy Corn Relish

Easy Corn Relish is a versatile condiment that can brighten up many dishes with its vibrant flavors. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy this relish.

Tacos

• Top your tacos with Easy Corn Relish for an added crunch and sweetness. It pairs well with both meat and veggie fillings.

Grilled Meats

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or pork to complement the smoky flavors. The tanginess of the relish enhances the overall taste.

Sandwiches

• Spread on sandwiches or burgers for a zesty kick. It adds a delightful texture and flavor contrast to any filling.

Salads

• Mix into green salads or grain bowls. Easy Corn Relish provides an exciting burst of flavor that elevates simple greens.

Chips and Dips

• Use as a dip with tortilla chips or pita chips. The sweetness balances perfectly with salty snacks.

Cheese Platter

• Add to cheese boards as a unique accompaniment. It pairs wonderfully with creamy cheeses, enhancing their richness.

How to Perfect Easy Corn Relish

Perfecting your Easy Corn Relish will ensure it’s bursting with flavor every time you make it. Here are some tips for success.

• Use fresh corn: Fresh whole kernel corn provides the best flavor and texture, making your relish even more delicious.

• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the sugar amount based on your taste preference. This can balance the acidity of the vinegar.

• Experiment with spices: Adding herbs like dill or cilantro can create unique flavor profiles in your relish.

• Properly jar: Ensure jars are hot before filling them, which helps maintain the quality and safety of preservation.

• Allow resting time: Letting the relish sit for at least 2 weeks develops deeper flavors, making it tastier when served.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Corn Relish

Easy Corn Relish pairs well with many side dishes, making meals more enjoyable. Here are some options to consider:

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the zest of corn relish perfectly.
2. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts well with the relish’s tanginess.
3. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a delightful pairing, enhancing the corn flavor in both dishes.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies offer a smoky element, balancing out the sweet and tangy notes of the relish.
5. Baked Beans: The earthy flavors of baked beans work nicely alongside the bright taste of Easy Corn Relish.
6. Potato Salad: A classic potato salad creates a hearty side that harmonizes beautifully with this condiment.
7. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, quinoa salad serves as a healthy base for adding spoonfuls of relish.
8. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide a comforting side that contrasts well with the vibrant relish flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Corn Relish can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.

• Skipping the sterilization: Always ensure your jars are properly sterilized before filling them. This prevents contamination and extends shelf life.
• Incorrect ingredient ratios: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can affect flavor and texture. Follow the recipe closely for best results.
• Overfilling jars: Leaving adequate headspace is crucial to ensure proper sealing. Aim for a 1/2 inch headspace when filling your jars.
• Ignoring processing times: Each canning method has specific processing times. Failing to process for the correct duration can lead to spoilage.
• Not allowing the relish to rest: Patience is key! Letting your relish rest for at least two weeks enhances its flavors.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks after opening.

Freezing Easy Corn Relish

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 6 months. Ensure you leave space for expansion.

Reheating Easy Corn Relish

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover, and heat in short intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Corn Relish?

Easy Corn Relish is a tangy condiment made with corn, peppers, and spices. It’s perfect as a topping or side dish.

How long does Easy Corn Relish last?

When properly canned, it can last up to a year on the shelf. Once opened, store it in the refrigerator for about 2 weeks.

Can I customize my Easy Corn Relish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different spices or herbs according to your taste preferences. You can also adjust the sweetness by modifying the sugar content.

What dishes pair well with Easy Corn Relish?

This relish complements grilled meats, tacos, and salads beautifully. It also adds a great twist to sandwiches or burgers.

Final Thoughts

Easy Corn Relish is not just simple to make; it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy it as a zesty topping or as an ingredient in other recipes, this relish brings a delightful flavor boost. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite spices or vegetables! Give this recipe a try, and you’ll have a delicious addition to your meals all year round.