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Pepper Hash
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.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course condiment
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 12 kcal

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
Keyword Depression-era recipe, heirloom, homemade, pepper relish, pickled vegetables, preserved condiment, vintage
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