Spice up your sandwiches: diy jersey mike’s cherry pepper relish recipe

Jersey Mike’s cherry pepper relish is an iconic condiment that has tantalized taste buds for decades. Its tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor adds an irresistible kick to their signature sandwiches. This blog post will unravel the secrets behind this beloved relish, providing you with an authentic recipe that will allow you to recreate the Jersey Mike’s experience at home.

The History of Jersey Mike’s Cherry Pepper Relish

The origins of Jersey Mike’s cherry pepper relish can be traced back to the early 1980s. When Mike Vitaro, the founder of Jersey Mike’s, opened his first sandwich shop, he realized that a unique and flavorful relish would enhance the taste of his creations. After countless experiments, he stumbled upon the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and spicy ingredients that became the foundation of the iconic cherry pepper relish.

Ingredients: The Key to Authenticity

To achieve the authentic taste of Jersey Mike‘s cherry pepper relish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh cherry peppers, seeded and chopped
• 1 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions: Recreating the Magic

1. Prepare the Cherry Peppers: Remove the stems and seeds from the cherry peppers. Chop them into small pieces.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the chopped cherry peppers, white vinegar, granulated sugar, brown sugar, onion, celery, salt, celery seed, and red pepper flakes.
3. Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
4. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Taste and Adjust: Taste the relish and adjust the seasonings as desired. You may add more sugar for sweetness or more red pepper flakes for spiciness.
6. Cool and Store: Remove the relish from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Variations: Personalizing Your Relish

While the classic cherry pepper relish recipe is a staple, you can experiment with variations to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Spicy Relish: Add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a more intense heat.
• Sweet Relish: Increase the amount of granulated sugar by 1/4 cup for a sweeter flavor.
• Tangy Relish: Add 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar to enhance the tanginess.

Applications: Unleashing the Flavor

Jersey Mike’s cherry pepper relish is a versatile condiment that can elevate a wide range of dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

• Sandwiches: Spread it on your favorite sandwiches, such as the Jersey Shore’s Favorite or the Big Kahuna Cheesesteak.
• Burgers: Top your burgers with cherry pepper relish for a burst of flavor.
• Hot Dogs: Add a tangy touch to your hot dogs with a generous dollop of relish.
• Tacos: Use it as a flavorful topping for your tacos.
• Salads: Add a spicy kick to your salads with cherry pepper relish.

Tips for Success: Masterful Relish Creations

• Use Fresh Cherry Peppers: Fresh cherry peppers provide the best flavor and texture. If fresh peppers are unavailable, you can use canned cherry peppers, but the flavor will be slightly different.
• Don’t Overcook: Overcooking the relish will make it mushy. Simmer it for just 30 minutes to preserve its vibrant color and texture.
• Adjust to Taste: Everyone’s taste preferences are different. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to suit your palate.
• Experiment with Variations: Don’t limit yourself to the classic recipe. Experiment with different variations to find your perfect combination of flavors.

The Perfect Pairing: Enhancing Your Sandwiches

Jersey Mike’s cherry pepper relish is the perfect complement to their signature sandwiches. Here are a few pairings that will tantalize your taste buds:

• Jersey Shore’s Favorite: This classic sandwich features ham and provolone cheese, topped with cherry pepper relish, lettuce, tomato, and onion.
• Big Kahuna Cheesesteak: Tender sliced steak, melted American cheese, onions, green bell peppers, and cherry pepper relish come together in this mouthwatering sandwich.
• Turkey and Provolone: The simplicity of turkey and provolone cheese is elevated by the tangy kick of cherry pepper relish.

In a nutshell: The Relish That Makes Jersey Mike’s Iconic

Jersey Mike’s cherry pepper relish is not just a condiment; it’s an essential ingredient that defines the unique taste of their famous sandwiches. With this authentic recipe, you can now recreate that iconic flavor at home and elevate your sandwiches to new heights. So, grab your ingredients and start experimenting to find your perfect combination of flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does cherry pepper relish last in the refrigerator?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container, cherry pepper relish can last for up to 2 weeks.
Q: Can I use frozen cherry peppers to make the relish?
A: Yes, you can use frozen cherry peppers. Thaw them completely before using and drain any excess liquid.
Q: Can I substitute granulated sugar with another sweetener?
A: Yes, you can use brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar. Adjust the amount to achieve the desired sweetness.
Q: What are some other variations I can try with the relish?
A: You can add chopped jalapenos for extra heat, diced pickles for a tangy twist, or even shredded carrots for a bit of sweetness and crunch.
Q: Can I make a large batch of the relish to store for later?
A: Yes, you can double or triple the recipe and store the excess relish in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months.