Piccalilli
Piccalilli is a type of British relish made from chopped vegetables and flavored with mustard and turmeric. It has a tangy, slightly spicy flavor profile. It is often served as a condiment with cold meats, cheese and pork pies. It is a also a delicious hot dog and hamburger relish!
We are also fans of Cornish Pasties, and it is a wonderful condiment served with them.
Common Uses for Piccalilli
As a condiment
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Hot dogs and sausages: A sharp alternative to classic relish or mustard.
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Burgers: Adds tang and crunch to cut through rich meats.
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Sandwiches: Particularly on cold cuts, ham, roast beef, or turkey sandwiches.
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Barbecue: Especially in the South, piccalilli (or its cousin, chow-chow) is often served with pulled pork or brisket.
With regional dishes
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New England boiled dinners: Piccalilli is a classic accompaniment to corned beef and boiled vegetables.
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Southern soul food: Served as a side relish with greens, beans, or fried meats.
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Midwestern meats: It pairs well with pork chops or meatloaf.
In appetizers or snacks
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Cheese boards: Adds a bright, vinegary counterpoint to cheeses, especially sharp Cheddar.
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Crackers and spreads: Mixed into cream cheese or served atop deviled eggs or crostini.
As an ingredient
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Salad dressing or slaw: Adds tang and spice when mixed with mayonnaise or vinaigrettes.
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Tuna or egg salad: A spoonful of piccalilli livens up classic salad recipes.
Read how to hot water bath can here.
Piccalilli
Piccalilli is a type of British relish made from chopped vegetables and flavored with mustard and turmeric. It has a bright yellow color and a tangy, slightly spicy flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 24 hours
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 24 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 pints 1x
- Category: Canning
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
1 small head cauliflower, broken into florettes
4 cups coarsely chopped green tomatoes
1 cup coarsely chopped celery
2 large onions, coarsely chopped
2 red bell peppers, seeded and coarsely chopped
2 green bell peppers, seeded and coarsely chopped
1/4 cup salt
1 cinnamon stick
1 teaspoon whole cloves
1 teaspoon whole allspice
1 1/4 cups cider vinegar
1 1/2 cups water
2 cups firmly packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 teaspoon turmeric
Dash of hot pepper sauce
Instructions
- Chop vegetables using the coarse blade of a food grinder or in a food processor.
- Combine vegetables and salt; cover and let stand overnight.
- Drain off as much liquid as possible, pressing through a clean, thin white cloth if necessary.
- Tie cinnamon, cloves and allspice in a cheesecloth bag.
- Place vegetables, spice bag and remaining ingredients in a large pot. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Ladle into clean, hot jars, leaving 1/2-inch headspace; seal.
- Process in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes.
Notes

