Introduction
Slow Cooker Tomato Relish is a sweet-savory condiment made with ripe tomatoes, onions, and warm spices, gently simmered until thick and flavorful. It’s perfect for topping meats, sandwiches, or adding a burst of homemade goodness to everyday meals.
Origin
Tomato relish has deep roots in farmhouse and preservation cooking, where gardeners transformed surplus tomatoes into long-lasting condiments. Slow cooking modernizes the process, delivering rich flavor with minimal effort.
Cultural Significance
This relish reflects traditional home economics—nothing wasted, everything enjoyed. Often found in Amish, Southern, and Midwestern kitchens, tomato relish is a staple that bridges fresh harvests and year-round comfort.
Ingredients Quantity (Makes about 4 cups)
- Ripe tomatoes (chopped): 4 cups
- Onion (finely chopped): 1 large
- Bell pepper (finely chopped): 1 medium
- Garlic (minced): 3 cloves
- Apple cider vinegar: ¾ cup
- Brown sugar: ¾ cup
- Salt: 1½ tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp
- Ground mustard: 1 tsp
- Celery seed: ½ tsp
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): ¼ tsp
Optional Additions
- Ginger or cinnamon pinch
- Cloves (⅛ tsp)
- Jalapeño for heat
- Honey instead of sugar
- Raisins for sweetness
Tips for Success
- Chop vegetables evenly
- Leave lid slightly ajar to thicken
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
- Adjust sweetness and acidity at the end
- Cool fully before storing
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to the slow cooker and stir well.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Remove lid for last 1–2 hours to allow relish to thicken.
- Taste and adjust salt, sugar, or vinegar if needed.
- Cool completely before transferring to jars.
Description
This tomato relish is thick, glossy, and bursting with sweet-tangy flavor. The slow cooker coaxes out depth and richness, making every spoonful bold and balanced.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per 2 tbsp)
- Calories: 35–45 kcal
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9–11 g
- Sugar: 8–9 g
- Sodium: Moderate
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Tomato Relish is a timeless condiment that elevates simple meals with homemade flavor. Easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, it’s a recipe worth keeping on hand.
Recommendation
Serve with grilled meats, burgers, hot dogs, roasted vegetables, or cheese boards. Keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Made with real vegetables and slow-cooked care, this relish offers bold flavor without heaviness. A little goes a long way in enhancing wholesome meals.