Cranberry Jalapeño Relish Recipe

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 2 (8 ounce) packages fresh cranberries
• 6 medium fresh jalapeo peppers, seeded and minced
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
• 1 cups white sugar
• 2 medium limes, juiced
• 1 teaspoons salt
• teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare a refreshing and spicy cranberry jalapeo salsa:

1. In a food processor, combine the cranberries, jalapeos, and cilantro. Pulse until the mixture is well blended, working in batches if needed. Transfer to a large bowl.
2. Add the sugar, lime juice, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are combined.
3. Once everything is well mixed, the salsa is ready to serve. Enjoy it fresh or let it chill for added flavor!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	363	-
Total Fat	0g	1%
Sodium	882mg	38%
Total Carbohydrate	94g	34%
Dietary Fiber	7g	26%
Total Sugars	81g	-
Protein	1g	3%
Vitamin C	38mg	42%
Calcium	35mg	3%
Iron	1mg	6%
Potassium	255mg	5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Cranberry Jalapeo Relish is a vibrant and flavorful condiment that brings together the sweetness of cranberries, the heat of jalapeos, and the zest of fresh lime. This relish is not only a fantastic addition to your holiday table but also a unique blend of contrasting flavors that is sure to surprise and delight your guests.

History and Origin

The combination of cranberries and spicy peppers in dishes like the Cranberry Jalapeo Relish is rooted in the culinary creativity of the modern American kitchen. While cranberry relish itself has a long history in North American cuisine, dating back to early Native American uses of the berry, the addition of jalapeos and other spicy elements is a contemporary twist that reflects the evolving tastes of the United States. Cranberries, native to North America, were first used in savory dishes by Native Americans who appreciated their tartness, and they later became a staple at Thanksgiving meals in the United States.

Regional Variations

Cranberry relish with jalapeos is most commonly associated with the American South and Southwest. These regions have a long tradition of incorporating spicy peppers into various dishes, and the use of jalapeos is particularly prevalent. The relish also reflects the influence of Mexican cuisine, where the balance of sweet and spicy flavors is celebrated. In many American households, cranberry relish is prepared for Thanksgiving, but the inclusion of jalapeos adds a new level of excitement to the dish, making it a fusion of traditional and contemporary flavors.

What Makes It Different?

While cranberry sauce is a common side dish on holiday tables, the Cranberry Jalapeo Relish stands apart due to its unique combination of sweetness, tartness, and heat. Traditional cranberry sauce typically features only sweeteners like sugar or orange juice, whereas this relish incorporates fresh jalapeos, cilantro, and lime juice, providing a tangy, spicy kick that you wont find in conventional cranberry dishes. The relish's chunky texture, which comes from blending fresh ingredients in a food processor, adds to its distinctiveness, offering both visual and flavor contrast to the smoother, more gelatinous texture of classic cranberry sauce.

Common Occasions and Serving Suggestions

This relish is often served as a condiment at Thanksgiving and Christmas, but it can also be enjoyed year-round. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats such as turkey, chicken, and pork, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the meat. The relish can also be used as a topping for grilled cheeses, burgers, or even as a dip with chips or crackers. Its a versatile dish that can be served either as an appetizer or as a flavorful side dish. Some people even use it as a topping for cream cheese, making it an excellent choice for holiday parties.

Interesting Facts

• The cranberry is one of only three fruits native to North America, along with blueberries and concord grapes.
• Jalapeos are among the most widely grown chili peppers in the world and are known for their medium heat, making them ideal for adding a gentle spice without overwhelming the other flavors.
• Cranberries are packed with antioxidants and are often associated with health benefits, including urinary tract health and heart disease prevention.
• This relish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week, making it an excellent choice for holiday meal prep.

Conclusion

Cranberry Jalapeo Relish is a perfect blend of sweet, tart, and spicy elements that make it a stand-out dish for any festive occasion. Whether you're serving it with traditional holiday meals or using it as a versatile topping or dip, it offers a refreshing change from the usual cranberry sauce. The dish's origins, regional influences, and unique flavors reflect the creativity of modern American cuisine, and its sure to impress anyone who tastes it.

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