Homemade Corn Relish

Homemade Corn Relish Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 10

Introduction

Homemade corn relish is a delicious and versatile condiment that can add a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. Made with fresh corn, sweet red and green peppers, celery, onions, and a blend of spices, this relish is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.

History

Corn relish has been a popular condiment in American cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the southern United States, where corn is a staple crop. The combination of sweet corn, peppers, and spices creates a unique flavor profile that pairs well with a wide range of dishes.

Ingredients

20 ears of corn, kernels removed
1 pt (473 ml) diced sweet red peppers
1 pt (473 ml) diced green peppers
1 qt (946 ml) chopped celery
1 cup chopped white onions
1.5 cups sugar
1 qt (946 ml) vinegar
2 tbsp salt
2 tsp celery seed
2 tbsp dry mustard
1 tsp turmeric

How to prepare

Cook the ears of corn in boiling water for 5 minutes, then cut the kernels from the cob.
Combine the peppers, celery, onions, sugar, vinegar, salt, and celery seed.
Bring the mixture to a boil for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Blend the dry mustard and turmeric with a little liquid, then add it to the boiling mixture along with the corn.
Boil the mixture for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
To thicken the relish, you can add 0.25 cup of flour blended with 0.5 cup of water when adding the corn for cooking.
Make sure to stir frequently to prevent sticking and scorching.
Pack the relish loosely, then seal and process it for 15 minutes.

Variations

Add diced jalapenos for a spicy kick.
Substitute honey or maple syrup for the sugar for a different flavor profile.
Mix in diced tomatoes or black beans for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the corn just until tender to ensure a crisp texture in the finished relish.

- Stir the mixture frequently while cooking to prevent sticking and scorching.

- Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to suit your taste preferences.

- For a thicker relish, you can add a flour and water mixture during the cooking process.

Serving Suggestions

Homemade corn relish is a versatile condiment that can be served with grilled meats, sandwiches, salads, or as a topping for tacos or nachos.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the corn briefly to cook it before adding it to the relish mixture.

- Blend the dry mustard and turmeric with a little liquid before adding it to the boiling mixture to ensure even distribution of the spices.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use frozen corn kernels if fresh corn is not available.

- Substitute red or yellow peppers for the green peppers for a different color and flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Homemade corn relish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The flavors will continue to develop over time.

Presentation Ideas

Serve homemade corn relish in a decorative jar or bowl for a colorful and appetizing presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

Homemade corn relish pairs well with grilled chicken, fish tacos, pulled pork sandwiches, or as a topping for hot dogs or burgers.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store homemade corn relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of homemade corn relish contains approximately 80 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of homemade corn relish contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Homemade corn relish is low in fat, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving.

Proteins

Each serving of corn relish contains minimal protein, with less than 1 gram per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Corn relish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber. It also contains small amounts of potassium and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten. However, individuals with allergies to corn, peppers, or celery should avoid this recipe.

Summary

Homemade corn relish is a low-calorie condiment that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a healthy addition to a balanced diet.

Summary

Homemade corn relish is a delicious and versatile condiment that adds a burst of flavor to a variety of dishes. Made with fresh corn, peppers, celery, onions, and a blend of spices, this relish is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Enjoy it as a topping, side dish, or ingredient in your favorite recipes.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small town in the countryside. My grandmother, who was known for her delicious homemade dishes, had invited me to spend the summer with her. It was during that summer that I learned how to make her famous Homemade Corn Relish.

My grandmother, whom I affectionately called Nana, was a wonderful cook. She had a talent for taking simple ingredients and turning them into mouthwatering dishes that everyone loved. Nana had learned to cook from her own mother, who had passed down recipes that had been in our family for generations.

One sunny afternoon, as we sat on the front porch shelling peas, Nana turned to me and said, "Why don't we make some corn relish today? It's one of my favorite recipes, and I think you'll love it too." I was intrigued by the idea of making something new, so I eagerly agreed.

We gathered the ingredients we needed – fresh corn, red bell peppers, onions, vinegar, sugar, and spices. Nana showed me how to cut the corn off the cob and chop the peppers and onions into small pieces. She then mixed everything together in a large pot and let it simmer on the stove for hours, until the flavors had melded together perfectly.

As the aroma of the relish filled the kitchen, I couldn't wait to taste it. When Nana finally deemed it ready, she spooned some onto a plate and handed it to me. I took a bite and was immediately transported to a world of flavors – sweet corn, tangy vinegar, and a hint of spice that tingled on my tongue. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Over the course of that summer, Nana taught me everything she knew about cooking. She showed me how to choose the best ingredients, how to season dishes just right, and how to follow a recipe with precision. I soaked up every bit of knowledge she shared with me, eager to learn as much as I could.

By the time the summer was over, I had mastered the art of making Nana's Homemade Corn Relish. I made it for my family back home, who raved about how delicious it was. I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who were equally impressed by its unique flavor.

Years passed, and I continued to make Nana's Homemade Corn Relish for every special occasion. It became a beloved tradition in our family, a dish that everyone looked forward to whenever we gathered together. I passed the recipe down to my own children, who now make it for their families as well.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that summer so long ago, I am grateful for the gift of cooking that Nana gave me. Her recipes have brought joy and comfort to so many people over the years, a legacy that I am proud to carry on. And whenever I make her Homemade Corn Relish, I am reminded of that happy memory of discovery, of learning something new and delicious that has become a cherished part of my life.