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Two burgers topped with red hamburger relish on a serving plate, with a jar of relish, tomatoes, and bell peppers in the background.

Red Hamburger Relish

This red hamburger relish is a sweet and tangy condiment made with red bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and a balanced blend of spices. It has a slightly chunky texture and a bright flavor that works well with burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and simple everyday meals. Easy to make on the stovetop, this homemade hamburger relish keeps well in the fridge and adds a sharp, flavorful contrast to rich dishes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Condiments
Cuisine American
Servings 3 cups
Calories 45 kcal

Equipment

  • Cutting board and knife
  • Saucepan
  • Spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups red bell pepper finely chopped
  • 1 cup onion finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • ¾ cup apple cider vinegar
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • ½ teaspoon celery seeds
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon ground allspice
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions
 

  • Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped red bell pepper and onion. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste and mix well. Add the apple cider vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, black pepper, allspice, cloves, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
  • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the relish thickens and the vegetables become soft but remain slightly chunky.
  • Remove from heat and allow the relish to cool. Transfer the relish to clean jars and refrigerate until ready to use.

Notes

  • Finely chopping the vegetables helps create the classic relish texture while keeping the mixture slightly chunky.
  • Crushed tomatoes and tomato paste give the relish its deep red color and glossy texture, similar to traditional hamburger relish.
  • Allspice and cloves add a warm background spice that complements the sweetness of the relish.
  • The relish keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
    Serve on burgers, hot dogs, grilled sausages, or sandwiches for a sweet and tangy topping.
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