Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish is the perfect way to introduce a vibrant, tangy twist to your meals. Packed with earthy sweetness, it not only enhances your dishes but also brings a burst of color and nutrition to your plate.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish

Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish is a delicious, tangy condiment that combines the natural sweetness of beets with savory, zesty ingredients. This relish is the ideal accompaniment to burgers, sandwiches, roasted meats, or cheese platters, adding an extra layer of flavor.

The beetroot gives it a rich, earthy undertone, while ingredients like vinegar and spices give it a sharp, tangy finish. It’s a versatile and refreshing relish that can be made in just a few simple steps.

Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Beetroots (fresh) – The star of the dish, these provide the earthiness and sweetness. Fresh, raw beets are best for making relish, offering a vibrant color and rich taste.
• Apple cider vinegar – For that tangy sharpness that balances the natural sweetness of the beets.
• Brown sugar – Adds a rich, molasses-like sweetness that complements the earthy flavor of the beets.
• Onion – Finely chopped to add some sharpness and depth to the relish.
• Garlic – A couple of cloves, minced, to enhance the relish’s savory notes.
• Ginger – Fresh ginger adds a zingy, slightly spicy flavor that brightens the whole relish.
• Cinnamon stick – To add warmth and a subtle, aromatic touch.
• Cloves – A couple of whole cloves for a hint of spiciness.
• Mustard seeds – A pop of spice that adds complexity to the relish.
• Salt and pepper – To taste, to balance out the sweetness and tang.

Equipment Needed

Before diving into the cooking, gather the following equipment:

• Sharp knife – For chopping the beets, onions, and garlic.
• Grater or food processor – To grate the beets finely, allowing them to cook quickly and evenly.
• Saucepan or large pot – A medium-sized saucepan works well to combine all the ingredients and simmer the relish.
• Wooden spoon – To stir and prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Sterilized jars – If you wish to preserve the relish, sterilize glass jars to store it in once cooled.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish?

Making Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish is an easy and rewarding process. Here’s how to do it:

1. Prep the Beets: Begin by peeling and grating the beetroots. You can use a box grater or a food processor for this step. The finer the grating, the quicker the relish will cook.
2. Cook the Onions and Garlic: In a large saucepan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic. Stir them frequently, cooking them until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine the Ingredients: Add the grated beets to the pan and stir to combine. Pour in the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and add the ginger, cinnamon stick, cloves, and mustard seeds.
4. Simmer and Stir: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Allow it to cook for 40-45 minutes or until the mixture thickens and reaches a relish-like consistency.
5. Season and Adjust: Taste the relish and add salt and pepper according to your preference. You can also adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more sugar or vinegar.
6. Cool and Store: Once cooked, remove the cinnamon stick and cloves. Allow the relish to cool before transferring it to sterilized jars. If you plan on storing it, make sure to seal the jars properly and refrigerate.

Expert Tips

1. Balance the Sweetness: Beetroot relish can sometimes get too sweet. Adjust the sugar and vinegar ratio to ensure the sweetness doesn’t overpower the tanginess.
2. Add Heat: For a spicy kick, try adding a chopped chili or a pinch of chili flakes while the relish simmers. This balances the sweetness with a savory heat.
3. Grate Finely: For a smoother relish texture, make sure to grate the beets finely. This will help them cook faster and blend into the relish more evenly.
4. Storage: If you want to make this in bulk and store it for later use, it keeps well in sterilized jars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If you want it to last longer, you can can it properly.
5. Serving Suggestions: Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, cheeses, or as a spread for sandwiches. You can even drizzle it over salads for a burst of flavor.

Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish is a flavor-packed addition to your kitchen repertoire. With its earthy sweetness, tangy acidity, and aromatic spices, it complements a wide variety of dishes, from burgers to cheese platters.

It’s a versatile and easy-to-make condiment that adds depth and character to your meals. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced home chef, this beetroot relish recipe is a must-try.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish

Jamie Oliver’s beetroot relish recipe is a delightful blend of earthy, tangy, and sweet flavors that can be adapted to suit a variety of preferences and dietary needs. While the original recipe is already a winner, there are countless ways to tweak it to match different tastes or make it more versatile. Here are a few easy variations to try:

1. Spicy Beetroot Relish: Add a kick of heat to your beetroot relish by incorporating finely chopped fresh chili peppers or a dash of chili flakes. If you prefer a milder spice, a small amount of smoked paprika can provide a warm, smoky flavor that complements the beets without overpowering them.
2. Citrus Beetroot Relish: To bring a fresh, zesty twist to the relish, add the juice and zest of an orange or lemon. This not only brightens up the flavor but also enhances the tanginess, balancing out the sweetness of the beets.
3. Herb-Infused Beetroot Relish: For a more aromatic variation, experiment with different herbs. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even basil can add depth and fragrance. You can either cook these herbs with the relish or add them as a garnish once it’s ready.
4. Apple Beetroot Relish: For an added touch of sweetness and texture, mix in finely chopped apple. Granny Smith apples will add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the beetroot, while Gala or Fuji apples will enhance the overall sweetness.
5. Balsamic Beetroot Relish: Replace the vinegar in the original recipe with balsamic vinegar for a richer, more complex flavor. Balsamic vinegar’s deep, sweet acidity pairs wonderfully with the natural earthiness of the beets, creating a tangy, balanced relish.
6. Vegan Beetroot Relish: If you’re looking for a vegan version, ensure that the recipe uses plant-based ingredients for the sweetener (like maple syrup) and double-check the vinegar for non-animal-based production. You can also add a small amount of date syrup for an additional layer of natural sweetness.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftovers of beetroot relish can be stored properly to maintain its fresh and vibrant flavor. Here are some best practices to ensure that your leftover beetroot relish stays delicious:

1. Cool Down Before Storing: Allow the relish to cool completely at room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation inside the container, which can lead to spoilage.
2. Refrigeration: Store your beetroot relish in the refrigerator, where it can last up to 1 to 2 weeks. The cool temperature helps preserve the flavors and texture, keeping the relish fresh.
3. Freezing: If you have an abundance of leftover relish, you can freeze it for long-term storage. Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, and make sure to leave a little room for expansion as the relish freezes. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To use, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge or reheat it gently on the stove.
4. Sealed Jars: For longer storage, you can preserve your beetroot relish by canning it in sealed glass jars. This involves heating the jars to create a vacuum seal, ensuring the relish stays safe and fresh for several months without refrigeration. Just be sure to follow proper canning guidelines to avoid contamination.
5. Avoid Cross-Contamination: When using leftover relish, always use a clean spoon to scoop it out. Avoid double-dipping or introducing contaminants, which can cause spoilage or affect the relish’s flavor.

What Goes Well With Beetroot Relish?

Beetroot relish is a versatile accompaniment that can elevate a wide range of dishes. Its tangy, sweet, and earthy flavor profile makes it an ideal pairing for both vegetarian and meat-based meals. Here are some great ideas for what goes well with beetroot relish:

1. Cheese: Beetroot relish pairs beautifully with cheese, particularly sharp varieties like goat cheese, feta, or blue cheese. Spread the relish on crackers or bread and top it with your favorite cheese for an appetizer or snack.
2. Grilled Meats: The rich, tangy taste of beetroot relish complements grilled meats such as steak, lamb, or pork. The relish’s acidity cuts through the richness of the meat, adding a refreshing balance.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Use beetroot relish as a topping for roasted root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips. The sweetness of the relish pairs well with the caramelized edges of roasted vegetables, creating a harmonious dish.
4. Burgers: Whether you’re making a beef burger, veggie burger, or chicken burger, a dollop of beetroot relish is a perfect topping. The relish adds flavor and moisture, while also giving a beautiful pop of color to your burger.
5. Sandwiches and Wraps: Beetroot relish makes a fantastic spread for sandwiches or wraps, particularly those containing cold cuts, grilled vegetables, or even falafel. It’s also great in a classic cheese sandwich.
6. Salads: Mix a spoonful of beetroot relish into a leafy salad for a burst of flavor. It works particularly well in salads that contain roasted vegetables, avocado, or arugula, giving the dish a tangy kick.
7. Rice and Grains: Use beetroot relish as a topping for rice dishes, couscous, or quinoa. The relish adds a rich, earthy contrast to the lightness of the grains, and it can elevate a simple grain bowl into something extraordinary.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s beetroot relish is not just a delightful condiment but also a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire. Its unique blend of sweet, tangy, and earthy flavors makes it an excellent complement to a wide variety of dishes, from meats and cheeses to grains and vegetables.

By experimenting with easy recipe variations, you can tailor it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Properly storing leftovers ensures that you can enjoy this delicious relish long after you’ve made it, and with so many pairing possibilities, you’ll never run out of ideas on how to incorporate it into your meals. So, whether you’re using it as a topping, a dip, or a spread, beetroot relish is bound to bring vibrant flavor and a burst of color to your table.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients In Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish Recipe?

The key ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s beetroot relish include fresh beetroot, red onions, cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and various spices such as mustard seeds and black pepper. These ingredients create a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy relish that pairs well with meats, cheeses, or even as a sandwich spread.

Can I Substitute Fresh Beetroot With Canned Beetroot In Jamie Oliver’s Relish Recipe?

While fresh beetroot gives the best flavor and texture, you can use canned beetroot as a substitute. However, canned beetroot may have a slightly different texture and a sweeter flavor due to added preservatives or sweeteners. Ensure to drain and rinse the canned beetroot before using it in the recipe.

How Long Can Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish Be Stored?

Jamie Oliver’s beetroot relish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can jar it and process it in a water bath to preserve it for several months.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish Suitable For Vegans?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s beetroot relish is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. The ingredients are all plant-based, making it a great choice for those following a vegan diet.

What Can I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish?

Jamie Oliver’s beetroot relish pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. It’s commonly served with grilled meats, burgers, or sandwiches.

It also complements cheeses, especially soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie. Additionally, it can be used as a topping for salads or as a side dish with roasted vegetables.

Can I Adjust The Sweetness Or Tanginess Of The Beetroot Relish?

Yes, you can adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your taste. To make the relish sweeter, add more sugar, and to make it tangier, increase the amount of cider vinegar. Taste the mixture during cooking to find the right balance of flavors for your preference.

How Do I Prepare The Beetroot For Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish Recipe?

To prepare the beetroot, peel the raw beetroot and then grate or chop it finely, depending on your texture preference. Be sure to wear gloves when handling beetroot to avoid staining your hands. After preparation, the beetroot is cooked with the other ingredients to create the relish.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish In Advance?

Yes, you can make Jamie Oliver’s beetroot relish in advance. In fact, the flavors tend to improve after sitting for a day or two, as the ingredients have time to meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and use it within 1-2 weeks for the best taste.

What Is The Consistency Of Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish?

Jamie Oliver’s beetroot relish has a chunky consistency due to the grated beetroot and chopped onions. It’s not a smooth paste but rather a thick, spreadable relish with a slightly textured finish. This makes it perfect for spreading or spooning onto dishes.

Can I Add Extra Spices To Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish For More Flavor?

Yes, you can customize the spices in Jamie Oliver’s beetroot relish to suit your taste. Common additions include garlic, ginger, or chili for a bit of heat.

You can also experiment with herbs such as thyme or rosemary for an herbal twist. Just remember to start with small amounts and adjust gradually.