Courgette Relish

Preserving Summer: Courgette Relish Recipe for Canning

As summer winds down, many home cooks seek creative ways to make the most of their harvests. One delicious option is courgette relish, a vibrant blend of courgettes, bell peppers, and onions. This relish adds a delightful zing to sandwiches, pairs beautifully with grilled meats, or serves as a tasty dip for crackers. In this post, you'll find a straightforward guide to making courgette relish for canning, allowing you to savor the flavors of summer throughout the year.

Ingredients You Will Need

Before you start, gather these ingredients:

• 4 cups chopped courgette

• 2 cups chopped bell peppers

• 2 cups chopped onions

• 1/4 cup pickling salt

• 3 1/2 cups sugar

• 1 tablespoon celery seed

• 2 teaspoons yellow mustard seed

• 2 cups apple cider vinegar (5% acidity)

  
  

Having these items ready will streamline your cooking process and ensure the best results.

Preparing the Vegetables

Start by washing your courgettes thoroughly. After cleaning, chop them into small, consistent pieces, about 1/4 inch in size, to ensure even cooking. For the bell peppers, remove the seeds and stems, then chop them into similar-sized pieces. Finally, chop the onions to match the size of the courgette and bell peppers.

Consistent chopping not only improves the relish's appearance but also ensures that each bite is flavorful and balanced. A visual appeal can increase your enjoyment while eating and sharing the relish.

Salting the Vegetables

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped courgettes, bell peppers, and onions. Evenly sprinkle the pickling salt over the vegetables, making sure to coat them well.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit for about two hours. This crucial step allows the salt to draw out moisture, enhancing the vegetables' flavors and prepping them for canning.

During this two-hour wait, it's a perfect time to clean your jars and lids, preparing everything for this rewarding preserving adventure.

Cooking the Relish

After two hours, drain the vegetables and rinse them under cold water to wash away excess salt. In a large pot, combine the drained vegetables with the sugar, celery seed, yellow mustard seed, and apple cider vinegar.

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. The relish will thicken beautifully and fill your kitchen with delightful aromas, reminding you of summer cookouts.

Preparing Jars for Canning

While the relish simmers, prepare your jars for canning. Sterilize them in a boiling water bath for at least 10 minutes to eliminate any bacteria or contaminants. If using metal lids, simmer them in hot water as well to help create a strong seal.

Filling the Jars

Once the relish has finished simmering and your jars are sterilized, ladle the hot courgette relish into the jars. Leave approximately 1/2 inch of headspace at the top, which is essential for proper sealing during the canning process.

After filling, wipe the rims with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue. Place the lids on each jar and follow with the rings, tightening them just enough to secure.

Freshly sliced courgettes paired with a jar of homemade courgette relish, showcasing farm-to-table goodness.

Canning the Relish

Next, process the jars in a boiling water bath. Ensure they are fully submerged and process the jars for about 15 minutes (increase the time if you are at a higher altitude).

After processing, carefully remove the jars and place them on a clean towel to cool. Listen for the satisfying “pop” of the lids sealing, which indicates your courgette relish is safely preserved.

Storing Your Courgette Relish

Once cool, check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid; it should not bounce back. Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

If any jars don't seal well, refrigerate them and use the relish within a few weeks. Label your jars with the canning date to keep track of freshness, ensuring older jars are used first.

Summing It Up

Making courgette relish at home is a fulfilling way to enjoy summer flavors during the colder months. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a tasty condiment that enhances many dishes, from sandwiches to charcuterie boards.

Gather your summer harvest and start your canning adventure. Enjoy the wonderful taste of summer in every bite, and happy preserving!