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Instructions:
- Prepare a boiling water bath canner. Wash 5 pint or half-pint jars and keep them hot until ready to fill.
- Wash the zucchini thoroughly and trim off the stem and blossom ends.
- Shred or finely dice the zucchini by hand or with a food processor.
- Peel and finely dice or shred the onion.
- In a large stainless steel pot, combine the apple cider vinegar, sugar, celery seed, turmeric, and mustard seed.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Carefully add the zucchini and onion. Return the mixture to a boil, then boil gently for 5 minutes, stirring often.
- Ladle the hot relish and liquid into the hot jars, leaving 1/2-inch headspace. Make sure the liquid covers the vegetables.
- Remove any air bubbles, adjust the headspace if needed, and wipe the jar rims clean.
- Apply the lids and bands until fingertip tight.
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath:
- Pint or half-pint jars at 0–1,000 feet: 15 minutes
- Pint or half-pint jars at 1,001–6,000 feet: 20 minutes
- Pint or half-pint jars above 6,000 feet: 25 minutes
- Carefully remove the jars and let them cool undisturbed for 12–24 hours. Check that each lid has sealed before storing.
Variations
- Add finely chopped red or green bell peppers for extra color and sweetness.
- Include a finely diced jalapeño for a spicy version.
- Substitute part of the granulated sugar with light brown sugar for a richer flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of dill seed for a more traditional pickle-inspired relish.
- Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
Tips
- Use fresh, firm zucchini for the best texture and flavor.
- Finely shredded zucchini creates a smoother relish, while diced zucchini produces a chunkier consistency.
- Always use apple cider vinegar with 5% acidity for safe home canning.
- Let the relish rest for 2 to 3 weeks before opening so the flavors have time to fully develop.
- Refrigerate after opening and enjoy within a few weeks.
- This relish is delicious on hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, grilled meats, potato salad, egg salad, tuna salad, and homemade burger sauce. It also makes a wonderful homemade gift.
