Spicy Sweet Pineapple Relish Recipe

Zesty Spicy Sweet Pineapple Relish Recipe for Bold Flavor Fans

Bursting with tropical flavors, this spicy sweet pineapple relish dances between heat and sweetness on your palate.

Vibrant chunks of golden pineapple mingle with zesty peppers, creating a condiment that sparks excitement.

The relish delivers a punch of flavor that instantly elevates any dish.

Chili and sugar weave together, crafting a harmonious blend that tingles your taste buds.

Fresh ingredients combine to create a versatile topping perfect for grilled meats, tacos, or as a standalone dip.

Bold and bright, this relish transforms ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences.

Prepare to tantalize your senses with every delectable spoonful.

All The Ingredients For Pineapple Relish

Main Ingredients:
  • Pineapple: Fresh tropical fruit that provides the sweet base and chunky texture for the relish.
  • Jalapenos: Spicy peppers that add heat and vibrant flavor to the relish.
Liquid Base:
  • Vinegar, Lemon Juice: Acidic components that balance the sweetness and help preserve the relish.
  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a syrupy consistency.
Seasoning and Preserving Ingredients:
  • Jars, Lids: Essential for safely storing and preserving the homemade relish.
  • Boiling Water: Used for sterilizing jars and processing the relish for long-term storage.

Relish Prep Tools For Zest

  • Large Saucepan: Perfect for combining and simmering ingredients, with plenty of space for the relish mixture.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurately portioning vinegar, sugar, and seasonings.
  • Cutting Board: Needed for chopping pineapple and jalapenos into small pieces.
  • Sharp Knife: Crucial for precise cutting of fruits and peppers.
  • Boiling Pot: Used for sterilizing jars and lids in boiling water.
  • Canning Jars with Lids: Necessary for storing and preserving the relish.
  • Jar Tongs: Helpful for safely handling hot jars during processing.
  • Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring the relish mixture while cooking.

Making Pineapple Relish Step-By-Step

Step 1: Whip Up the Flavor Base

Create a tangy liquid foundation by combining white vinegar, granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic spices in a spacious cooking pot.

Ignite the heat until the mixture reaches a rolling boil, then gently reduce to a simmer.

Stir continuously until the sugar melts completely, creating a smooth, glossy liquid.

Step 2: Simmer the Tropical Mixture

Toss in freshly chopped:
  • Ripe pineapple chunks
  • Finely diced jalapeno peppers

Let the ingredients dance together over medium heat.

Allow the mixture to bubble and meld for approximately 20 minutes.

Watch as the pineapple softens and the liquid transforms into a rich, sticky syrup with vibrant colors and intense flavors.

Step 3: Prepare Sterilized Containers

While the relish simmers, sanitize glass jars and matching lids.

Submerge them in rapidly boiling water for a minimum of 5 minutes.

This crucial step eliminates any potential bacteria and ensures your preserve remains safe and delicious.

Step 4: Seal the Delicious Treasure

Carefully ladle the hot relish into the sterilized jars, leaving appropriate space at the top.

Wipe jar rims clean to ensure a perfect seal.

Securely attach lids and process the jars in a bubbling water bath for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Preserve and Enjoy

Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature.

Verify each lid has sealed properly by checking for a slight indentation.

Store your homemade preserve in a cool, dark pantry and enjoy the burst of tropical flavors for months to come.

Tips For Bright, Spicy Sweet Relish

  • Choose ripe, golden pineapples with sweet fragrance and minimal brown spots for the best flavor profile.
  • Adjust jalapeno quantity based on heat tolerance – remove seeds for milder relish or add extra peppers for more kick.
  • Thoroughly clean jars and lids in boiling water to prevent bacterial growth and extend shelf life of your relish.
  • Gently press jar lids after cooling – if they don't flex, your preservation process was successful and safe.
  • Taste relish while cooking and adjust sugar or vinegar levels to achieve perfect harmony of flavors.

Relish Swaps & Fruit Additions

  • Tropical Mango Relish: Swap pineapple with ripe mangoes for a softer, sweeter version that maintains the spicy kick from jalapenos.
  • Low-Sugar Citrus Relish: Replace sugar with stevia or monk fruit sweetener and add orange zest for a tangy, diabetic-friendly alternative.
  • Herb-Infused Green Relish: Mix in fresh cilantro or mint during the final simmering stage to create an aromatic, garden-fresh variation.
  • Roasted Pepper Relish: Substitute jalapenos with roasted poblano or anaheim peppers for a smokier, milder heat profile that complements the pineapple's sweetness.

Serving Up Pineapple Relish On Anything

  • Tropical Taco Topper: Spoon this zesty relish over grilled fish tacos for a burst of sweet and spicy flavor that transforms your meal into a Caribbean-inspired feast.
  • Cheese Board Companion: Pair this relish with sharp cheddar or creamy goat cheese on a charcuterie board, creating a tangy and vibrant appetizer that'll wow your guests.
  • Grilled Protein Glaze: Brush the relish onto chicken, pork, or shrimp during the last few minutes of grilling for a caramelized, mouthwatering finish that adds incredible depth to your main dish.
  • Sandwich Spread Magic: Elevate your sandwiches by spreading this relish on turkey or ham, instantly upgrading a simple lunch into a gourmet experience with tropical flair.

Keeping Pineapple Relish Crisp

  • Transfer cooled relish to airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Keep sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent flavor absorption from other foods.
  • Pour cooled relish into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
  • Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark pantry for up to 12 months. Check seals periodically and discard if any signs of spoilage appear.
  • Gently warm refrigerated or thawed relish in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Heat just until warm to preserve its fresh flavor and texture.

FAQs

  • Can I adjust the spice level in this pineapple relish?

Yes, you can control the heat by removing the jalapeno seeds for less spiciness or adding more jalapenos for extra kick. Choose how many peppers and whether to include seeds based on your personal heat tolerance.

  • Is fresh pineapple necessary for this recipe?

While fresh pineapple provides the best flavor and texture, you can substitute with canned pineapple in juice (not syrup). Just drain the canned pineapple thoroughly before adding to the mixture to maintain the right consistency.

  • How long will this relish stay good after canning?

When properly processed and sealed, this spicy sweet pineapple relish will last up to 12 months in a cool, dark pantry. Once opened, store in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 weeks.

Spicy Sweet Pineapple Relish: A Tropical Kick

  • Dive into a tangy-sweet relish that combines the tropical punch of pineapple with a spicy kick from jalapenos, creating a mouthwatering condiment that'll jazz up any dish.
  • Master the art of canning with this straightforward recipe that guides you through sterilizing jars, filling, and processing, making homemade preservation a breeze for beginners and seasoned canners alike.
  • Elevate your meals by using this vibrant relish as a topping for grilled meats, a zesty sandwich spread, or a flavor-packed addition to cheese boards and charcuterie platters.
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Spicy Sweet Pineapple Relish Recipe

Spicy Sweet Pineapple Relish Recipe


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4.7 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Pineapple relish with a spicy sweet flavor brings tropical excitement to grilled meats and sandwiches. Jamaican-inspired ingredients blend perfectly, creating a zesty condiment that elevates simple dishes with bold Caribbean character.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 cups (710 milliliters) fresh pineapple, diced
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) jalapeno peppers, thinly sliced

Liquid Base:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) apple cider vinegar
  • 2 cups (400 grams) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) lemon juice

Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon (5 grams) mustard seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 grams) turmeric powder
  • 1 tablespoon (15 grams) grated ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Craft a tangy base by whisking vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, and seasonings in a large saucepan, bringing the mixture to a rolling boil, then reducing heat to melt sugar completely.
  2. Introduce diced pineapple and finely chopped jalapenos into the simmering liquid, allowing the ingredients to meld and reduce for approximately 20 minutes until the mixture thickens and fruit softens.
  3. Simultaneously sterilize glass jars and lids by submerging them in rapidly boiling water for 5-7 minutes, ensuring complete sanitization.
  4. Carefully ladle the hot relish into prepared jars, maintaining precise headspace, wiping jar rims meticulously to guarantee a clean seal.
  5. Process sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes, creating a secure preservation environment.
  6. Remove jars and allow them to cool undisturbed, listening for the distinctive popping sound indicating successful vacuum sealing.
  7. Once completely cooled, verify each jar’s seal by pressing the center lid, then store in a dark, consistent temperature location for optimal preservation.

Notes

  • Customize heat levels by adjusting jalapeno quantities, using milder peppers like poblano, or adding red pepper flakes for extra kick.
  • Ensure proper canning safety by using sterilized jars, checking seal integrity, and storing in cool, dark locations to prevent spoilage.
  • Transform this relish into a versatile condiment by using it as a topping for grilled meats, tacos, or mixing into cream cheese for a zesty spread.
  • Swap white sugar with honey or agave for a different sweetness profile, making the recipe more suitable for alternative dietary preferences.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 132
  • Sugar: 17 g
  • Sodium: 2 mg
  • Fat: 0 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 33 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
Marcus Reed

Marcus Reed

Founder & Food Content Creator

Expertise

Single-recipe development, Seasonal and local ingredient utilization, Food photography and styling, Culinary writing and content creation​

Education

Culinary Arts Certificate, Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, WV
Focus: Fundamentals of culinary techniques, emphasizing hands-on experience in small-scale kitchen settings.


Marcus’s story begins in Asheville, where good food and family kitchens shaped his earliest memories. After hands-on culinary training and a lot of trial (and a little error), he realized that real cooking isn’t about perfection, it’s about connection.
At Pan and Oven, Marcus crafts recipes that are easy to follow, packed with flavor, and built for real kitchens.

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