Cucumber Relish
Cucumber Relish Recipe - Authentic Guyanese Flavors
Introduction
Cucumber relish is a tangy and sweet condiment that is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to sandwiches, salads, and grilled meats. This recipe is easy to make and can be stored for several weeks in the refrigerator.
History
Cucumber relish has been a popular condiment in many cultures for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century as a way to preserve cucumbers and other vegetables for the winter months.
Ingredients
- 12 cucumbers
- 2 onions
- 2 sweet peppers
- 0.5 cup of salt
- 1 cup of sugar
- 2 tbsp of mustard seed
- 1 tsp of celery seed
- 3 cups of vinegar
How to prepare
- Chop the cucumbers, onions, and peppers.
- Add salt and let them stand overnight.
- Drain and mix in sugar, mustard, and celery seed.
- Pack the mixture into clean jars, cover with vinegar, and seal tightly.
Variations
- Add diced jalapenos for a spicy kick.
- Use honey instead of sugar for a different flavor profile.
- Mix in chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added freshness.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to use fresh cucumbers and other vegetables for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to suit your taste preferences.
- Store the relish in sterilized jars to ensure it stays fresh for longer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cucumber relish on hot dogs, burgers, or grilled chicken for a burst of flavor.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe requires basic chopping and mixing techniques, making it easy for even beginner cooks to prepare.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have sweet peppers, you can use bell peppers instead. You can also use white vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar.
Make Ahead Tips
Cucumber relish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Presentation Ideas
Serve cucumber relish in a small bowl or jar for a rustic presentation. You can also garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
Cucumber relish pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, and salads. It also makes a great addition to cheese and charcuterie boards.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store cucumber relish in the refrigerator in a sealed jar or container. It can be reheated in the microwave or served cold.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of cucumber relish contains approximately 50 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of cucumber relish contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Cucumber relish is low in fat, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving.
Proteins
There is minimal protein in cucumber relish, with less than 1 gram per serving.
Vitamins and minerals
Cucumber relish is a good source of vitamin C and vitamin K, as well as potassium and fiber.
Alergens
This recipe may contain allergens such as mustard seed. Be sure to check for any allergies before consuming.
Summary
Cucumber relish is a low-calorie condiment that is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to your meals.
Summary
Cucumber relish is a versatile condiment that adds a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. This easy recipe can be customized to suit your taste preferences and is a great way to use up an abundance of cucumbers. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old recipe box that belonged to my own grandmother. As I sifted through the yellowed index cards and torn scraps of paper, I stumbled upon a recipe for Cucumber Relish that caught my eye.
I had always loved relishes, especially the tangy and sweet ones that my grandmother used to make. The thought of making my own version filled me with excitement and nostalgia. I knew that this recipe was special, and I couldn't wait to give it a try.
The recipe called for cucumbers, onions, bell peppers, sugar, vinegar, and a blend of spices. It seemed simple enough, but I could tell that the real magic lay in the combination of flavors and the technique of pickling the vegetables just right.
I decided to make the Cucumber Relish for a family gathering that weekend. As I chopped the fresh cucumbers and onions, I couldn't help but think of my grandmother and all the times we had spent in the kitchen together. She had taught me so much about cooking and baking, and I felt her presence with me as I mixed the ingredients and simmered the relish on the stove.
The aroma of the vinegar and spices filled the air, and I could already taste the tangy sweetness of the relish on my tongue. I knew that this recipe was a winner, and I couldn't wait to share it with my family.
When the relish was finally done, I spooned it into jars and sealed them tightly. The vibrant green color and the crunch of the cucumbers told me that I had created something truly special. I knew that my grandmother would be proud.
At the family gathering, I proudly presented my homemade Cucumber Relish to my relatives. They oohed and aahed over the jars, and I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride in my chest. As they tasted the relish, their faces lit up with delight, and I knew that I had found a new favorite recipe.
From that day on, the Cucumber Relish became a staple at our family gatherings. I made batch after batch, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my taste. Each time I made it, I felt a connection to my grandmother and the generations of women who had passed down their culinary knowledge to me.
Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who all raved about the tangy sweetness of the relish. They would ask me where I had learned to make such a delicious condiment, and I would smile and tell them about my grandmother and the old recipe box that had inspired me.
As time passed, the recipe for Cucumber Relish became a cherished heirloom in my family. It was passed down from one generation to the next, along with stories of summer days spent in the kitchen, chopping vegetables and simmering spices.
Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the familiar scent of vinegar and spices, I can't help but feel grateful for the recipe that brought me so much joy and connection to my past. The memory of finding it for the first time will always be a cherished one, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. And as I take a bite of the tangy, sweet relish, I know that my grandmother's spirit lives on in every jar that I make.
Categories
| Cucumber Recipes | Guyanese Recipes | Guyanese Vegetarian | Mustard Seed Recipes | Onion Recipes | Relish Recipes | Sweet Pepper Recipes |