Jersey Mike's Red Pepper Relish Recipe

Name: Jersey Mike’s Red Pepper Relish Recipe – Easy Meal Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 5
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 clove of garlic, minced; 40-50 cherry peppers, seeds carefully extracted and set aside; 1/2 cup white wine vinegar; 1/3 cup cup granulated sugar; Salt, to taste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained

Last Updated on November 30, 2024

Today, I’m excited to share my spin on the beloved Jersey Mike’s red pepper relish. As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I’ve toyed with countless recipes, but this one continues to stand out. Why? The answer lies in its addictive taste and unparalleled versatility.

Let’s embark on this journey together. Whether you’re searching for an exciting addition to your sandwiches or a bold ingredient to kick your meals up a notch, you’ve found it. In this post, I’ll guide you through my favorite red pepper relish recipe that will have everyone raving.

What is Jersey Mike’s Red Pepper Relish?

Jersey Mike’s red pepper relish is a vibrant condiment featuring sweet and tangy flavors. Originating from the beloved New Jersey sandwich chain, this relish captivates your taste buds and elevates even the simplest of dishes. It is made from finely chopped cherry peppers, vinegar, sugar, and spices, creating a delightful balance that can transform your meal.

This relish encapsulates the essence of good food: fresh ingredients combined thoughtfully to tantalize the palate.

What Does It Taste Like?

Picture this: you take a bite, and the initial sweetness dances on your tongue. Soon after, the tartness of vinegar mingles in, giving your dish just the right amount of zing. Then, the gentle warmth of the cherry peppers grips you in the best way possible. It’s sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy, striking a beautiful harmony that keeps you coming back for more.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s also practical for various reasons. Here’s why I’m passionate about it:

1. Fresh Ingredients Provide Quality Flavor
Using fresh cherry peppers directly impacts the taste. Their crunchiness and natural sweetness come through beautifully, making every bite satisfying.

2. Customizable to Suit Your Taste
Don’t like it too spicy? You can control the heat easily. Modify the amount of cherry peppers based on your heat tolerance and flavor preference.

3. Perfect for Meal Prep
Make this relish in advance. It keeps well in the refrigerator, which means you can enjoy this flavor explosion for days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before serving.

4. Elevates Any Dish
Whether it’s a humble sandwich or a refined gourmet dish, this relish enhances the profile of your meal without overpowering it.

Ingredients for Jersey Mike’s Red Pepper Relish

Let’s gather our ingredients before diving into the preparation:

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 clove of garlic, minced
40-50 cherry peppers, seeds carefully extracted and set aside
½ cup white wine vinegar
⅓ cup granulated sugar
Salt, to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained

These ingredients combine to create something magical.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Extract the seeds from the cherry peppers and set them aside. Having everything ready to go makes the process smoother.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a medium saucepan, heat one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent—about 3-4 minutes. The aroma? Absolutely delightful. Next, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

Step 3: Cook the Peppers

Now, toss in the cherry peppers. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they soften slightly. It’s like watching a beautiful transformation from firm to tender.

Step 4: Add the Vinegar and Sugar

Pour in the white wine vinegar and granulated sugar. Stir to combine. As the sugar dissolves, you’ll notice a lovely, glossy mixture beginning to form. This concoction will soon be pure bliss!

Step 5: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle in some salt, dried oregano, and drained capers. Mix everything together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the relish thickens slightly.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Once finished, remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool to room temperature. After cooling, transfer the relish to an airtight container. It’s ready to grace your glorious creations or sit pretty in your fridge.

Notes

Here are some helpful tips to ensure you get it just right:

Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Feel free to tweak the sugar. If you enjoy a more tangy flavor, reduce the sugar slightly.
Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh oregano on hand, it will deliver an even more aromatic flavor.
Storage is Key: Avoid using wet utensils to keep your relish fresh longer.
Try Other Peppers: Incorporate other peppers, like banana or jalapeño, for added zest.
Serving Size: This recipe makes about 1 cup of relish. Perfect for sandwiches or as a dipping sauce!

How to Store the Leftovers?

Storing is a breeze! Once cooled, place your red pepper relish in an airtight container. Refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks. The flavors will deepen and develop over time, making it taste even better as days go by. Just give it a good stir before each use.

Sides for Jersey Mike’s Red Pepper Relish

Looking to create the perfect meal to pair with your relish? Here are some great side suggestions:

1. Grilled Chicken
Chicken coated in herbs and grilled to perfection harmonizes beautifully with the vibrant relish. The relish adds a kick that complements the savory chicken.

2. Crunchy Veggie Platter
Prepare an array of colorful veggies, such as carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. The relish offers a beautiful dip that brightens each bite.

3. Fresh Bruschetta
Top toasted bread with a fresh mix of tomatoes, basil, and a splash of olive oil. The relish can serve as a decadent topping or a delightful dip on the side.

4. Quinoa Salad
A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber and feta crumbles pairs perfectly as a light side. Drizzle some red pepper relish on it for an unbeatable flavor combo.

Alternative Choices for Ingredients

If you find yourself missing an essential ingredient, here are some substitutes:

1. Cherry Peppers:
If cherry peppers are not available, feel free to choose roasted red peppers instead. They offer a similar sweetness.

2. White Wine Vinegar:
In case you lack white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar will do just fine. It has a comparable tang that works well.

3. Capers:
If you don’t have capers on hand, olives can provide the brininess you need. They will give a slightly different flavor but still maintain the relish’s essence.

4. Granulated Sugar:
You can swap out granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetener, adding a unique flavor twist.

Conclusion

There you have it! Jersey Mike’s red pepper relish is more than just a condiment; it’s a celebration of flavors that can transform meals. This simple recipe is quick to whip up and can brighten everything from sandwiches to grilled meats.

As a busy food enthusiast, I appreciate recipes like this one, which can be made ahead and enjoyed throughout the week. Plus, the rush of flavors never fails to impress. Now that you have the elements to create this luscious relish, I encourage you to give it a try and watch your dishes spring to life! Enjoy!

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Print Recipe

Jersey Mike’s Red Pepper Relish Recipe – Easy Meal Recipe

Author: Mary Siegel Cuisine: Italian Courses: Condiment & Sauce

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 1 hr Total Time 1 hr 15 mins

Servings: 5 Calories: 113 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Imagine hosting a summer gathering with friends and family. You’re flipping burgers, tossing salads, and, of course, you need a zingy topping to elevate your sandwiches or veggie platters. That’s where Jersey Mike's red pepper relish comes into play. It pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes.

Try it on grilled chicken sandwiches, savory burgers, or even as a dip for fresh vegetables. You can also slather it on toast with cream cheese for a delightful snack or appetizer. It’s versatile, vibrant, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

1 clove of garlic, minced

40-50 cherry peppers, seeds carefully extracted and set aside

¹⁄₂ cup white wine vinegar

¹⁄₃ cup cup granulated sugar

Salt, to taste

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained