Sweet Corn Relish: A Canning Delight
Corn relish is a delightful addition to any summer barbecue or picnic. It's a versatile condiment that can be enjoyed on hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, or simply alongside your favorite dishes. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to make and can be canned for a delicious treat throughout the year!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- Fresh Sweet Corn: Choose corn with bright green husks and plump kernels.
- Vinegar: White vinegar or apple cider vinegar works best.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar provides sweetness and helps preserve the relish.
- Salt: Salt enhances the flavor and aids in preserving the relish.
- Optional Add-ins: Onions, bell peppers, jalapenos, spices like mustard seed, celery seed, or turmeric.
Steps to Make Corn Relish:
- Prepare the Corn: Remove the husks and silks from the corn. Cut the kernels off the cob, either with a knife or by using a corn cob cutter.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the corn kernels, vinegar, sugar, salt, and any optional add-ins.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the corn is tender and the relish has thickened slightly.
- Canning Process:
- Sterilize Jars: Wash jars, lids, and bands in hot soapy water. Sterilize jars and lids in boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Fill Jars: Carefully ladle the hot relish into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace.
- Wipe Rims: Clean the jar rims with a damp cloth to remove any spills or residue.
- Seal Jars: Place the sterilized lids on the jars and tighten the bands until they are fingertip tight.
- Process: Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes. This ensures that the relish is properly sealed and preserved.
- Cool and Store: Remove the jars from the boiling water bath and allow them to cool completely. Check that the lids have sealed (the center should be depressed). Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place.
Tips for Success:
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh, in-season corn for the best flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar to your preference.
- Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices and add-ins to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Safety First: Follow proper canning procedures and ensure that the jars are properly sealed to prevent spoilage.
Enjoy Your Homemade Corn Relish!
Once you've canned your corn relish, you'll have a delicious and homemade treat to enjoy all year long! Serve it up with your favorite grilled dishes, sandwiches, or even salads for a burst of flavor.
