If you have a soft spot for the classic summer staple with a little twist, this Hot Dog Relish Recipe is going to become your new secret weapon. It’s a vibrant, tangy, and slightly sweet mixture that elevates any hot dog from good to unforgettable. Packed with crunchy pickles, smoky roasted red peppers, and just the right kick from chili flakes and aromatic seeds, this relish brings layers of flavor and texture in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just craving something fresh and zesty, this Hot Dog Relish Recipe fits the bill perfectly and is super easy to whip up in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these straightforward ingredients is the first step to crafting a relish that’s bursting with flavor. Each component plays a key role, from the acidity and crunch of the pickles to the subtle heat and herbal notes, making the finished relish truly special.
- Dill Pickle (24 ounces, slices or spears): The star ingredient that adds crunch and tangy goodness.
- Roasted Red Pepper Strips (1/2 cup, drained): Adds a touch of smoky sweetness and vibrant color.
- Small Onion (1, cut into pieces): Provides a sharp, savory bite that balances the relish.
- Mustard Seed (1 tablespoon): Brings a subtle earthiness and a slight pop of texture.
- Celery Seed (1 tablespoon): Adds a refreshing, slightly peppery undertone.
- Dried Dill (1 teaspoon): Enhances the pickle flavor with an herby lift.
- Crushed Red Pepper (1 teaspoon): Offers a gentle heat to awaken your taste buds.
- Pickle Juice (3-4 tablespoons): Delivers tang and helps marry the flavors perfectly.
- Sugar (2 tablespoons): Balances the acidity with a subtle sweetness.
How to Make Hot Dog Relish Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pickles and Juice
The very first thing you want to do is drain your pickles carefully, saving about 4 tablespoons of that flavorful pickle juice. This juice is liquid gold—it’s packed with tangy goodness that’ll make the relish come alive.
Step 2: Chop It Up
Next, toss your drained pickles, roasted red peppers, and onions into a food processor. Pulse just until they’re chopped up small but still retain some texture. You’re aiming for a mix that’s finely diced but not mushy. Then transfer this colorful mixture into a bowl to get ready for the seasoning.
Step 3: Add the Flavor Boosters
Now, sprinkle in your mustard seed, celery seed, dried dill, and crushed red pepper. Pour in the 3 to 4 tablespoons of that reserved pickle juice, then add the sugar. Stir everything together so the flavors meld and you get that perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and sour in every spoonful.
Step 4: Chill and Let the Flavors Marry
Transfer your vibrant concoction to an airtight container or a mason jar and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. This chilling time is key because it lets each ingredient soak up all the wonderful flavors, making the relish taste even better when you serve it.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, grab your favorite hot dogs and load them up with this relish. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or having a casual indoor meal, this relish adds that irresistible punch that keeps everyone coming back for more.
How to Serve Hot Dog Relish Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to top your hot dogs with extra classic garnishes like mustard, ketchup, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese. The relish stands out beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp diced onions or a quick drizzle of spicy mayo for a gourmet touch.
Side Dishes
This relish doesn’t just shine on hot dogs—it’s fabulous alongside crispy French fries, baked beans, or corn on the cob. These side dishes complement the tang and spice of the relish, turning any casual meal into a full-blown flavor celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to impress guests, try serving the relish in small bowls as part of a hot dog bar. Offer a variety of sausages and buns, and let everyone build their own perfect dog. You might also use this relish as a zesty topping for burgers or as a flavorful spread on sandwiches and wraps.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once made, your Hot Dog Relish Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to two weeks. Just make sure to keep it in a tightly sealed container to preserve freshness and prevent any unwanted fridge odors from sneaking in.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, the texture may become a little softer when thawed because of the veggies’ high water content. If you choose to freeze, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat this relish at all. It’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature to retain its crisp texture and bright flavors, so simply scoop out what you need and serve directly.
FAQs
Can I use fresh dill instead of dried dill?
Absolutely! Fresh dill will add a brighter herbal note. Use about one tablespoon of chopped fresh dill in place of the dried to keep the balance just right.
Is it possible to make this relish without a food processor?
Yes! You can finely chop the pickles, onions, and peppers by hand, though it will take a bit more time. Just aim for small, even pieces so the flavors blend well.
How spicy is this Hot Dog Relish Recipe?
It has a gentle kick thanks to the crushed red pepper, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less crushed red pepper depending on your preference.
Can this relish be used for recipes other than hot dogs?
Definitely! It’s fantastic on burgers, sandwiches, or even as a tangy topping for grilled chicken and fish. Its versatility is one of the best things about this recipe.
Do I have to use roasted red peppers, or can I substitute with something else?
Roasted red peppers add a subtle sweetness and a smoky flavor that works beautifully here, but you could swap in roasted yellow peppers or even mild pimentos if you prefer a slightly different taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a homemade relish that’s bursting with fresh flavors and just the right balance of tangy, sweet, and spicy. This Hot Dog Relish Recipe is a delightful way to upgrade your hot dogs with minimal effort but maximum impact. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed hot dogs without it. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and watch this simple relish become your new summertime favorite!
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Hot Dog Relish Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes + 1 hour refrigeration
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Hot Dog Relish is a tangy, mildly spicy condiment made from diced dill pickles, roasted red peppers, and onions, blended with mustard seed, celery seed, dried dill, crushed red pepper, and a touch of sugar. Perfectly chilled and packed with flavor, it’s an ideal topping for hot dogs that adds a delightful crunch and bright zest to your meal.
Ingredients
Relish Ingredients
- 24 Ounce Jar Dill Pickle (Slices or Spears)
- 1/2 cup Roasted Red Pepper Strips (Drained)
- 1 Small Onion (Cut Into Pieces)
- 1 Tablespoon Mustard Seed
- 1 Tablespoon Celery Seed
- 1 Teaspoon Dried Dill
- 1 Teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper
- 3–4 Tablespoons Pickle Juice (reserved from the pickles)
- 2 Tablespoons Sugar
Instructions
- Drain Pickles and Reserve Juice: Drain the pickles from the jar, setting aside 4 tablespoons of the pickle juice for later use in the recipe.
- Chop Ingredients: Place the drained pickles, roasted red peppers, and onion pieces into a food processor. Pulse carefully until ingredients are finely chopped but still retaining a bit of texture. Transfer the chopped mixture into a mixing bowl.
- Add Seasonings and Mix: To the bowl with chopped vegetables, add mustard seed, celery seed, dried dill, crushed red pepper, 3–4 tablespoons of the reserved pickle juice, and sugar. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Refrigerate to Blend Flavors: Transfer the relish mixture into an airtight container, such as a mason jar. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop and meld together.
- Serve: After chilling, serve the relish cold with hot dogs or your favorite grilled foods and enjoy the burst of tangy, sweet, and mildly spicy flavors.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper to suit your preferred spice level.
- The relish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.
- Use fresh roasted red pepper strips for the best flavor, or substitute with jarred roasted red peppers if needed.
- For a less sweet relish, reduce the sugar slightly or substitute with a sugar alternative.
- If you prefer a chunkier relish, pulse the food processor fewer times to keep larger pieces.
