Dried Cherry Relish for Turkey

Dried Cherry Relish for Turkey Recipe - Tart Cherry & Red Onion Relish

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1-1.5 minute | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Dried Cherry Relish is a delicious and versatile condiment that adds a burst of sweet and tangy flavor to a variety of dishes. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of dried cherries with the acidity of red wine vinegar and the savory flavors of onion, bell peppers, and fresh thyme. It is the perfect accompaniment to roast turkey, chicken, or even grilled burgers.

History

The combination of dried cherries and vinegar in relish recipes has been a popular culinary tradition for centuries. Dried fruits were often used in medieval European cooking to add sweetness and flavor to savory dishes. Over time, different variations of cherry relish have emerged, with each culture adding its own unique twist to the recipe.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of dried tart cherries
0.5 cup of cherry preserves
2 tbsp of red wine vinegar
0.5 cup of chopped red onion
0.25 cup of chopped yellow bell pepper
0.25 cup of chopped green bell pepper
1 tbsp of finely chopped fresh thyme OR half the amount of dried thyme

How to prepare

In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine dried cherries, preserves, and vinegar; mix well.
Microwave on High (100% power) for 1 to 1.5 minutes, or until hot.
Let it stand for 5 minutes.
Stir in red onion, yellow and green bell pepper, and thyme; mix well.
Cover and refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours or overnight.
Serve as a sauce with roast turkey or chicken.
This relish also pairs well with grilled hamburgers.

Variations

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Substitute the cherry preserves with apricot or peach preserves for a different flavor profile.
Mix in some chopped fresh mint or basil for a refreshing twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to let the relish sit in the refrigerator for at least 3 to 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.

- You can adjust the sweetness of the relish by using different types of preserves, such as apricot or peach, instead of cherry preserves.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other ingredients like chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Dried Cherry Relish alongside roast turkey or chicken as a flavorful sauce. It also pairs well with grilled burgers or as a topping for sandwiches and wraps.

Cooking Techniques

Microwave the dried cherries, preserves, and vinegar to quickly heat and soften the ingredients.

- Refrigerate the relish for a few hours to allow the flavors to develop and intensify.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries for a different texture.

- Swap out the red wine vinegar for balsamic vinegar for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This Dried Cherry Relish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop and intensify over time.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the relish in a small bowl or jar with a sprig of fresh thyme or a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This relish pairs well with roast turkey, chicken, pork, or grilled burgers. It also complements cheese platters and charcuterie boards.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the relish for a few seconds until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 100

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 25g

Dietary Fiber: 2g

Sugars: 20g

Fats

Total Fat: 0g

Saturated Fat: 0g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 0g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 15% DV

Iron: 2% DV

Alergens

This recipe may contain traces of nuts.

Summary

This Dried Cherry Relish is a low-fat, low-protein condiment that is high in carbohydrates and sugars. It is a good source of Vitamin C and provides a small amount of dietary fiber.

Summary

Dried Cherry Relish is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds a sweet and tangy touch to a variety of dishes. This recipe combines dried cherries, preserves, red wine vinegar, onion, bell peppers, and fresh thyme for a delicious relish that pairs perfectly with roast turkey, chicken, or grilled burgers. Enjoy this relish as a sauce, topping, or side dish for a burst of flavor in every bite.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Dried Cherry Relish for Turkey. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Sarah in her cozy kitchen. Sarah was known for her delicious Thanksgiving dinners, and I had always admired her culinary skills. As we sipped on some tea, she suddenly pulled out a dusty old cookbook from her shelf and told me she had a special recipe to share with me.

She opened the cookbook to a page that was marked with a faded ribbon, and there it was - the recipe for Dried Cherry Relish for Turkey. I was immediately intrigued by the combination of sweet and tangy flavors, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Sarah explained that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. It was a family favorite that had become a tradition at their Thanksgiving table. She told me about how the relish added a burst of flavor to the turkey and how the dried cherries gave it a unique twist that everyone loved.

I watched intently as Sarah walked me through the steps of making the relish. She showed me how to rehydrate the dried cherries in warm water, how to simmer them with a touch of sugar and vinegar to create a thick and syrupy sauce, and how to season it with a hint of cinnamon and ginger for added warmth.

As the relish cooked on the stove, filling the kitchen with its sweet aroma, I listened to Sarah's stories about her grandmother and the cherished memories they had shared in the kitchen. I could see the love and pride in her eyes as she talked about carrying on the family tradition and passing down the recipe to her own children.

When the relish was finally ready, Sarah spooned it into a small jar and handed it to me with a smile. She told me it was now my turn to carry on the tradition and make the relish for my own Thanksgiving dinner.

As I left Sarah's house that day, I felt a sense of excitement and anticipation. I couldn't wait to try the relish on my own turkey and share it with my family. That Thanksgiving, as the relish adorned the golden turkey on our table, I knew that I had found a new favorite recipe that would become a tradition in our home as well.

Over the years, I have made the Dried Cherry Relish for Turkey countless times, each batch bringing back memories of that day in Sarah's kitchen. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition just as Sarah had done for me.

And now, as I prepare for another Thanksgiving dinner, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of this recipe and the joy it has brought to my loved ones. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories, and to keep traditions alive for generations to come.