Rhubarb Relish
Rhubarb Relish Recipe from Canada with Vinegar, Brown Sugar, and Spices
Introduction
Rhubarb relish is a tangy and sweet condiment that pairs well with a variety of dishes. This versatile relish can be used as a topping for meats, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for crackers. The combination of rhubarb, onions, vinegar, and spices creates a unique flavor profile that is sure to impress your taste buds.
History
Rhubarb relish has been a popular condiment in many households for generations. Originally used as a way to preserve rhubarb during the harvest season, this relish has evolved into a beloved recipe that is enjoyed year-round. The sweet and tangy flavors of rhubarb pair perfectly with savory dishes, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 qt (946 ml) of chopped rhubarb
- 1 qt (946 ml) of finely chopped onion
- 1 qt (946 ml) of vinegar
- 2 lb (907 g) of brown sugar
- 1 tsp of salt
- 1 tsp of pepper
- 1 tsp of celery salt
- 1 tsp of cloves
- 1 tsp of cinnamon
How to prepare
- Combine all ingredients and simmer gently for 1.5 hours or until the mixture thickens.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Transfer the mixture into sterilized jars and seal them with wax.
Variations
- For a spicier version of rhubarb relish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. You can also experiment with different spices such as ginger, allspice, or nutmeg to create a unique flavor profile.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
When making rhubarb relish, be sure to chop the rhubarb and onions into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Simmer the mixture gently to prevent burning and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. For a smoother consistency, you can blend the mixture with an immersion blender before transferring it to jars.
Serving Suggestions
Rhubarb relish is a versatile condiment that can be served in a variety of ways. Try using it as a topping for grilled meats, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for crackers. This tangy and sweet relish pairs well with pork, chicken, and fish dishes.
Cooking Techniques
To ensure that the rhubarb relish has a smooth consistency, you can blend the mixture with an immersion blender before transferring it to jars. This will help to break down any large pieces of rhubarb or onions and create a more uniform texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have brown sugar on hand, you can substitute it with white sugar or honey. You can also use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar for a slightly sweeter flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
Rhubarb relish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This condiment will continue to develop flavor as it sits, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights.
Presentation Ideas
To add a pop of color to your dishes, serve rhubarb relish in small glass jars or ramekins. You can also garnish the relish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for a decorative touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Rhubarb relish pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and cheese platters. Try serving it alongside pork chops, chicken skewers, or a charcuterie board for a delicious and flavorful meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store rhubarb relish in sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To reheat the relish, simply spoon it into a small saucepan and warm it over low heat until heated through. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of rhubarb relish contains approximately 100 calories. The majority of these calories come from the brown sugar used in the recipe.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of rhubarb relish contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbohydrates come from the rhubarb and brown sugar used in the recipe.
Fats
Rhubarb relish is a low-fat condiment, with each serving containing less than 1 gram of fat. The small amount of fat in this recipe comes from the natural oils in the spices used.
Proteins
There is minimal protein in rhubarb relish, with each serving containing less than 1 gram. The primary sources of protein in this recipe are the onions and rhubarb.
Vitamins and minerals
Rhubarb relish is a good source of vitamin C, with each serving providing approximately 10% of the recommended daily intake. Additionally, rhubarb is rich in fiber, potassium, and calcium, making this relish a nutritious addition to your diet.
Alergens
Rhubarb relish does not contain any common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten. However, if you have a sensitivity to any of the ingredients used in this recipe, be sure to check the labels carefully.
Summary
Overall, rhubarb relish is a low-fat, low-calorie condiment that is rich in vitamin C and fiber. This tangy and sweet relish is a delicious addition to a variety of dishes and can be enjoyed by those with dietary restrictions.
Summary
Rhubarb relish is a tangy and sweet condiment that is perfect for adding flavor to a variety of dishes. This versatile relish is easy to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Whether you serve it as a topping for meats, a spread for sandwiches, or a dip for crackers, rhubarb relish is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy little kitchen. As we chatted and sipped on iced tea, she suddenly disappeared into her pantry and emerged with a large basket of fresh rhubarb.
"I have something special to show you," Margaret said with a mischievous twinkle in her eye. She handed me a worn and stained recipe card with faded writing on it. "This is my grandmother's famous rhubarb relish recipe. It's been in our family for generations."
I was intrigued. I had never tasted rhubarb relish before, and I couldn't wait to try it. Margaret guided me through the process, showing me how to chop the rhubarb, onions, and peppers into small pieces, and explaining the importance of letting the mixture simmer slowly on the stove to develop the flavors.
As the relish cooked, the kitchen filled with a sweet and tangy aroma that made my mouth water. Margaret poured the hot relish into jars and sealed them tightly, explaining that the flavors would continue to meld and intensify over time. She insisted that I take a jar home with me, and I left her house feeling like I had stumbled upon a hidden treasure.
When I finally had a chance to taste the rhubarb relish, I was blown away by its complexity. The tartness of the rhubarb was perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the sugar, and the onions and peppers added a savory depth that was truly delicious. I couldn't believe how such simple ingredients could come together to create such a flavorful condiment.
From that day on, I was hooked. I made Margaret's rhubarb relish recipe over and over again, tweaking it here and there to suit my own tastes. I added a pinch of cinnamon for warmth, a splash of vinegar for acidity, and a handful of raisins for sweetness. Each batch was a little different, but they all had that same irresistible combination of flavors that made my mouth water.
Over the years, I shared my rhubarb relish with friends and family, who all raved about its unique taste. I entered it in county fairs and cooking competitions, where it won blue ribbons and accolades from judges who couldn't get enough of its tangy goodness. I even started selling jars of my relish at local farmers' markets, where it became a bestseller among customers who appreciated its homemade charm.
As I continued to make and share my rhubarb relish, I couldn't help but think about Margaret and her grandmother. I felt a deep connection to them through this recipe, like I was carrying on a tradition that had been passed down through the generations. I imagined them in their own kitchens, chopping rhubarb and stirring pots of bubbling relish, just as I was doing now.
But more than anything, I felt grateful for the simple joy that this recipe had brought into my life. It wasn't just about the flavors or the accolades; it was about the memories and the connections that it evoked. Every time I made a batch of rhubarb relish, I was transported back to that sunny day in Margaret's kitchen, where I had discovered a treasure that would bring me joy for years to come.
And so, as I sit here in my own cozy kitchen, stirring a pot of bubbling rhubarb relish on the stove, I can't help but smile. This recipe may have started with Margaret and her grandmother, but it has become a part of me now. It's a piece of my history, my heritage, and my heart. And for that, I will always be grateful.
Categories
| Brown Sugar Recipes | Canadian Desserts | Canadian Recipes | Onion Recipes | Relish Recipes | Rhubarb Recipes | Vinegar Recipes |