Sauerkraut Relish is a zesty, sweet-and-tangy condiment that brings a burst of old-fashioned flavor to picnics, barbecues, and family dinners. Combining the fermented tang of sauerkraut with crisp peppers, onions, and a hint of sweetness, this relish pairs beautifully with hot dogs, bratwursts, grilled meats, and sandwiches. The recipe hails from classic American home cooking, where resourceful cooks transformed humble pantry staples into flavorful side dishes and accompaniments. This relish not only enhances savory meals but also stores well, making it a delightful homemade preserve for any season.
Ingredients
- 28 oz sauerkraut (drained)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 green pepper (small, chopped)
- 4 onions (chopped)
- 1 can pimentos (diced)
- 1 tsp celery seed
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Vegetables
- Chop the green pepper and onions into fine, even pieces. Drain the sauerkraut thoroughly to remove excess liquid.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained sauerkraut, chopped pepper, onions, diced pimentos, sugar, and celery seed.
Step 3: Mix and Rest
- Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Let the mixture stand for at least 1–2 hours to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 4: Store and Serve
- Transfer the relish into jars or an airtight container. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Keeps well for several weeks.
Tips
- Let the mixture stand refrigerated for several hours or overnight so flavors fully develop.
- Rinse the sauerkraut lightly before draining if you prefer a milder, less-sour relish.
- Replace green pepper with red bell pepper for sweeter flavor and color variation.
- Add a splash of vinegar (apple cider or white) if you like a tangier relish.
- For less sweetness, reduce the sugar gradually and adjust to taste.
- Dice ingredients very finely for a smoother, hot-dog–style relish texture.
- Use as a topping for sausages, hot dogs, pork chops, sandwiches, or beans.
- Add a pinch of mustard seed or turmeric for a more old-fashioned relish profile.
- Store in a tightly covered container in the refrigerator; it “keeps well” as the card notes.
- If using canned pimentos with added salt, adjust additional seasoning to avoid excess sodium.
Nutrition
Calories: 35kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 0.3gSodium: 120mgPotassium: 40mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 0.2mg
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