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Relish
In the U.S. vocabulary the
word relish refers to condiment which normally contains vinegar, salt and sugar. The
condiment might also contain chopped fruits or vegetables such as a "pickle
relish". The word "relish" first appeared in English in 1798 and
comes from the word "reles" which means in Old French, "something remaining".
To the British the term relish refers to a think pickle or a sauce which includes vinegar.
Relishes probably came about out of a desire to preserve vegetables from the home garden
for use during the winter months when no fresh produce was available.
Condiment v.s. Relish
Technically a relish is a "highly flavored condiment" (Alan Davidson).
Although the distinction can be slim a condiment is normally taken in a small amount such
as mustard on a hot dog. A relish on the other hand may be eaten by the mouthful in
conjunction with a a main food such as chutney with a meat. It is unlikely that
someone would be inclined to eat a spoonful of mustard.
Types of Relish
Chow-chow - An American term first used in the mid 19th century and refers to a
mixture of pickled mixed vegetables in mustard. The origins are Chinese and the relish was
a combination of orange peel, ginger combined along with assorted other ingredients put up
in a syrup. One publication from 1837 suggests the original recipe was for "Yellow
Pickle, or Axe-Jar".
Piccalilli - Distinguished as a 'sour pickle relish' usually made with
sour pickles and other vegetables such as cabbage, onions, green peppers, green tomatoes,
celery, sugar, seasonings and vinegar. This was obviously a recipe for using and
preserving garden vegetables.
Watermelon Rind
Chutneys - from the Hindu word catni, was thought to have
been introduced to America by schooner captains plying the spice trade. (American Heritage
Cookbook)
Pickle Relish - Frequently made with sweet pickles, bell peppers, onion
but sometimes found in dill versions. Probably the most commonly found commercial relish
in the U.S.
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Relish Recipes
Chow Chow - The
writer suggests serving with a bowl of pintos, a cake of corn bread and some
sweet onion.
Picalilli - Combines sweet red peppers, green
peppers, onions, cabbage, brown sugar and vinegar.
Mango Chutney - A spicy relish made with
mango, apples, brown sugar, garlic, pepper, ginger, cloves, allspice,
raisins and carrots.
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