Slow Cooker Tomato Relish Recipe

Are you looking for a way to elevate your dishes and add a burst of flavor to your meals? Look no further than this delightful Slow Cooker Tomato Relish! This versatile condiment is not only easy to make, but it also enhances a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to sandwiches and even pasta. With the slow cooker doing most of the work, you can enjoy the rich, savory flavors of tomatoes mingled with spices and herbs without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 cups ripe tomatoes, chopped (approximately 900g)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped (about 150g)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced (about 150g)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (60ml)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (50g)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
• 1 teaspoon salt (5g), or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2g)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (1g)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (1g)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

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Instructions

1. Begin by preparing your ingredients. Wash the tomatoes and chop them into small pieces. Finely chop the onion and dice the red bell pepper. Mince the garlic cloves.
2. In your slow cooker, add the chopped tomatoes, onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic.
3. Pour in the apple cider vinegar and add the brown sugar. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture, then sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Again, stir everything together until well mixed.
5. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it on low heat. Allow the mixture to cook for 6 to 8 hours, stirring occasionally if possible. The longer it cooks, the richer the flavors will develop.
6. Once the cooking time is up, taste the relish and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or sugar to suit your preference.
7. For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the relish to your desired consistency. If you prefer it chunky, skip this step!
8. Transfer the hot tomato relish into sterilized jars while it's still warm, sealing them tightly. Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before storing them in the refrigerator.

FAQs

1. Can I substitute fresh tomatoes with canned tomatoes?

Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. Ensure you drain excess liquid to avoid a watery relish. About 2 cans (14.5 oz each) of diced tomatoes should work well.

2. How long can I store the tomato relish?

Homemade tomato relish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, consider canning it or freezing it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

3. What dishes can I serve this relish with?

This tomato relish is incredibly versatile! It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, can be spread on sandwiches or burgers, and is a delightful addition to pasta dishes, cheese platters, or even served as a dip with crackers.

4. Can I make this relish spicy?

Absolutely! If you like heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño when cooking for extra spice.

5. What are some variations of this recipe?

You can experiment with different herbs and spices based on your taste preferences. Try adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, or include spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a unique twist!

Now that you have this easy and delicious Slow Cooker Tomato Relish recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Enjoy the delightful flavors and the satisfaction of making your own homemade relish.