Hot Mixed Pepper Relish

It's that time of year... Our garden is going crazy with the peppers! One of our newest obsessions is this Mixed Pepper Relish that I make to try and keep up. Though I still have peppers left, even after making 3 batches already this month! 

If you like it spicy, then you'll love this relish! It is very versatile. You can add it to burgers, chicken, hot dogs, or even tacos. It works well in marinades, or added in with your seasoning for something as simple as your next pot roast. Use it anywhere that you want to add a little (or a lot of) kick. You'll love the flavor that it brings! 

 Printable Recipe 
Ingredients:

• 3-4 Jalapeno Peppers
• 2 Red Chili Peppers (optional)
• 20-25 Cayenne Peppers
• 1 Yellow Onion, peeled and halved
• 1/2 bunch Cilantro Leaves (about 1/4 cup)
• 2 TBS Minced Garlic
• 2 TBS Lime Juice
• 1 1/2 cups Apple Cider Vinegar
• Pinch of Salt

Method:

Wash and sterilize 5 half pint jars, lids and rings, and set aside. 

Wash the peppers and remove their stems. Place all of the ingredients in a blender, and pulse until desired consistency. 

Pour the relish into a nonreactive (stainless steel or enameled) saucepan. Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

While you wait, bring a water-bath canner, with enough water to cover your jars by a couple of inches, to a boil. Also, in a smaller pot boil the lids and rings in water for 5 minutes. Try to time it so that the lids are ready when the mixture is.  

Ladle the pepper relish into the jars, filling up to the neck. Using a canning funnel is highly recommended. Wipe the rims with a clean cloth and hand tighten one lid and ring per jar. Use a potholder or dishcloth, so you don't burn yourself. 

Place filled jars onto the canning rack, and into the canner. Then, process in the boiling water bath for 15 minutes. 

Remove the jars from the canner, and place them on the counter to cool and seal. You will hear a popping sound as the jars seal. After they cool, test the seal by pressing down on the center of the lid. If any of them spring back up, they did not seal properly and you'll need to refrigerate those jars. 

One more thing that I love about this relish is that you don't have to wait! It is ready to enhance all of your favorite dishes immediately! Oh, and these cute little jars also make perfect gifts for friends or loved ones that like the spicier side of life!

Enjoy!