Spiced perfectly tangyf sweet,– A Homemade Pantry Favorite
This Spiced Carrot Relish is a vibrant, flavorful preserve made with shredded carrots, warm spices, and a sweet-tangy vinegar base. It’s perfect for canning, refrigerating, or enjoying fresh. Serve it alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, rice dishes, or as a zesty topping for salads. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and a beautiful color that brightens any meal!
Ingredients
2 kg (about 4½ lbs) carrots, peeled and grated
2 red bell peppers, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 large onion, finely chopped
1½ cups sugar
1 cup white vinegar or apple cider vinegar
½ cup vegetable oil
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
3 cloves garlic, minced
Preparation Method
Prepare the vegetables
Peel and grate the carrots. Finely chop the peppers and onion. Place everything in a large bowl.
Make the relish base
In a large pot, combine sugar, vinegar, oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, cumin, ginger, chili flakes, and garlic. Stir well.
Cook the relish
Add the grated carrots and chopped vegetables to the pot. Mix thoroughly.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 30–40 minutes until the carrots soften and the mixture thickens slightly.
Taste & adjust
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (more salt, sugar, or vinegar to your preference).
Jar the relish
While hot, spoon the relish into clean, sterilized jars. Press gently to remove air bubbles and seal tightly.
Store
Let jars cool completely, then store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month
Or process in a hot water bath for long-term pantry storage
Serving Ideas
With grilled chicken, fish, or meat
Inside sandwiches or wraps
As a side dish with rice or couscous
On toast with cream cheese