Pepper Hash is a zesty and sweet vinegar-based relish made from red and green peppers, tomatoes, onions, and seasonings. Popular during the early 20th century, this relish was often served alongside meats, beans, or bread as a tangy, preserved condiment. This 1932 version, handwritten and carefully preserved, reflects Depression-era frugality and an emphasis on seasonal preservation. It brings both flavor and nostalgia to any dish, especially when spooned over roast pork or beans.
Ingredients
- 12 red peppers
- 12 green peppers
- 3 hot peppers
- 15 onions
- ½ cup sugar
- 3 tbsp salt
- 1½ pints vinegar (about 3 cups)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Vegetables
- Wash all peppers and peel onions.
- Remove seeds from the bell peppers.
Step 2: Chop and Grind
- Grind or finely chop all vegetables together.
Step 3: Boil and Drain
- Place ground mixture in boiling water. Boil for 5 minutes.
- Drain, then pour boiling water over again and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Drain thoroughly.
Step 4: Season and Cook
- Transfer vegetables to a large pot.
- Add sugar, salt, and vinegar.
- Bring to a boil and simmer for 5–10 minutes.
Step 5: Store
- Ladle into sterilized jars. Seal and cool.
- Refrigerate or water-bath process for longer storage.
Tips
- Add celery seeds or mustard seeds for a more traditional relish flavor.
- Substitute part of the vinegar with apple cider vinegar for fruitier depth.
- Use hot peppers to intensify heat if the “3 strong peppers” aren’t spicy enough.
- Add finely chopped cabbage to stretch the batch and create a chow-chow hybrid.
- Simmer longer (15 to 20 minutes) for a thicker relish texture.
- Blend half the mixture for a smoother condiment.
- Add turmeric for color and mild earthiness.
- Use as a topping for hot dogs, beans, or sandwiches.
- Can the finished relish using proper canning procedures to store long-term.
Nutrition
Calories: 12kcalCarbohydrates: 6.7gProtein: 0.4gFat: 0.1gSaturated Fat: 0.02gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.02gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.01gSodium: 440mgPotassium: 75mgFiber: 0.8gSugar: 4.9gVitamin A: 820IUVitamin C: 46mgCalcium: 9mgIron: 0.3mg
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