Description
Introducing the Zesty Cranberry Jalapeno Relish: a vibrant and tantalizing condiment that perfectly marries the tart freshness of cranberries with the spicy kick of jalapenos. This relish is an excellent accompaniment to a variety of dishes, enhancing flavors with its unique blend of sweet, tart, and spicy elements. Whether you’re looking to add a burst of color to your table or a new twist to your traditional recipes, this relish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp water
- 1/4 cup onion; very finely diced
- 1 or 2 jalapenos; very finely diced, depending on heat preference
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 lime; zested and juiced
- 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
- 12 oz pkg fresh cranberries
Step-by-step Directions
1. Prepare the Cranberries
Begin by rinsing the fresh cranberries. Coarsely chop the cranberries or pulse them in a food processor and then mix them with the lime zest in a small saucepan.
2. Cook the Mixture
Add the granulated sugar and a couple tablespoons of water to the cranberries and lime zest. Set the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a slight boil, stirring occasionally, then remove it from heat.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients
Allow the cranberry mixture to cool slightly before mixing in the diced onions, jalapenos, and salt. After these ingredients are well combined, add the freshly squeezed lime juice.
4. Finish with Cilantro
Once the relish has reached room temperature, stir in the chopped cilantro. This addition will provide a fresh, herbal lift to the relish.
5. Adjust Seasoning
Before serving, taste the relish and adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your preferences. The balance of sweet, tart, and spicy can be tweaked by adding more sugar, lime juice, or jalapenos.
Servings & Preparation/Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 3 cups of relish. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is roughly 5 minutes.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Store the relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, this relish can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
- Reheating isn’t typically necessary, as the relish is served at room temperature or cold. However, if desired, it can gently be warmed over low heat.
Conclusion
The Zesty Cranberry Jalapeno Relish is a delightful twist on traditional cranberry sauces. Its ability to complement a wide range of dishes makes it an invaluable addition to both festive holiday tables and casual dining. The harmony of spicy, sweet, and tart flavors encapsulated in this relish not only caters to a variety of taste preferences but also introduces a refreshing kick to any meal. Try it with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a spirited topping on cheeses for an invigorating culinary experience.
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Zesty Cranberry Jalapeno Relish
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: approximately 3 cups of relish 1x
Description
Introducing the Zesty Cranberry Jalapeno Relish: a vibrant and tantalizing condiment that perfectly marries the tart freshness of cranberries with the spicy kick of jalapenos. This relish is an excellent accompaniment to a variety of dishes, enhancing flavors with its unique blend of sweet, tart, and spicy elements. Whether you’re looking to add a burst of color to your table or a new twist to your traditional recipes, this relish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp water
- 1/4 cup onion; very finely diced
- 1 or 2 jalapenos; very finely diced, depending on heat preference
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 lime; zested and juiced
- 1/3 cup chopped cilantro
- 12 oz pkg fresh cranberries
Instructions
- Prepare the Cranberries Begin by rinsing the fresh cranberries. Coarsely chop the cranberries or pulse them in a food processor and then mix them with the lime zest in a small saucepan.
- Cook the Mixture Add the granulated sugar and a couple tablespoons of water to the cranberries and lime zest. Set the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a slight boil, stirring occasionally, then remove it from heat.
- Add Remaining Ingredients Allow the cranberry mixture to cool slightly before mixing in the diced onions, jalapenos, and salt. After these ingredients are well combined, add the freshly squeezed lime juice.
- Finish with Cilantro Once the relish has reached room temperature, stir in the chopped cilantro. This addition will provide a fresh, herbal lift to the relish.
- Adjust Seasoning Before serving, taste the relish and adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your preferences. The balance of sweet, tart, and spicy can be tweaked by adding more sugar, lime juice, or jalapenos.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes