In the heart of summer, when the fields are brimming with the golden goodness of corn, there's a wonderful opportunity to capture the essence of this season and savor it throughout the year. One of the most delightful ways to do this is by canning a delicious corn relish recipe. This appetizer, which can also double as a fantastic topping or spread, is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a great way to make the most of one of summer's bountiful crops.

First and foremost, let's talk about the ingredients. To create this mouth - watering corn relish, you'll need fresh corn kernels. The fresher the corn, the better the flavor of your relish will be. You can either shuck the corn yourself or buy pre - shucked kernels from the grocery store. Along with the corn, you'll require onions, which add a sweet and savory undertone. Red or white onions work equally well, depending on your preference. Green and red bell peppers are also essential. They not only contribute to the vibrant color of the relish but also bring a crisp and slightly sweet flavor.

For the seasonings, a combination of mustard seeds, celery seeds, and turmeric will give the relish its characteristic tangy and slightly spicy kick. Salt and sugar are used to balance the flavors, with just the right amount of each to enhance the natural sweetness of the corn and vegetables. Vinegar is another crucial ingredient. It acts as a preservative when canning and adds a sharp, acidic note that cuts through the richness of the other components.

Now, onto the cooking process. Start by preparing the vegetables. Peel and dice the onions, and remove the seeds and membranes from the bell peppers before chopping them into small pieces. Cut the corn kernels off the cob, ensuring you get as much of the delicious corn milk as possible. In a large pot, combine the onions, bell peppers, and corn kernels. Add the mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, salt, and sugar. Pour in the vinegar and give everything a good stir.

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium - high heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the relish from sticking to the bottom of the pot. As it simmers, the flavors will meld together beautifully. The vegetables will soften slightly, and the corn will become tender and infused with the seasonings. This simmering process usually takes around 30 - 40 minutes, but keep an eye on it and adjust the time based on how quickly the vegetables reach the desired consistency.

While the relish is simmering, it's time to prepare the canning jars. Wash the jars and lids thoroughly in hot, soapy water. Rinse them well and then place the jars in a pot of boiling water for a few minutes to sterilize them. Remove the jars from the boiling water and let them dry on a clean towel. Make sure the lids are also clean and ready to use.

Once the relish is ready, carefully ladle it into the sterilized jars, leaving about a half - inch of headspace at the top. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe the rims of the jars to ensure a good seal. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until they are fingertip - tight. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for the recommended time according to your altitude. This step is crucial for ensuring the safety and longevity of your canned relish.

After the processing time is up, remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool on a towel. As they cool, you'll hear the satisfying 'pop' sound, indicating that the jars have sealed properly. Store the canned corn relish in a cool, dark place. It can be kept for up to a year, allowing you to enjoy the taste of summer even during the coldest months.

This corn relish is incredibly versatile. As an appetizer, you can serve it with crackers or tortilla chips. The crunch of the chips pairs perfectly with the soft, flavorful relish. It also makes an excellent topping for burgers, hot dogs, or grilled chicken. Spread it on a sandwich for an extra burst of flavor. The possibilities are endless, and each bite will transport you back to the sunny days of summer.

In conclusion, canning this corn relish recipe is a rewarding experience. It allows you to make the most of summer's corn crop and provides you with a delicious and versatile appetizer, topping, or spread that can be enjoyed throughout the year. So, the next time you're at the farmers' market and see those beautiful ears of corn, don't hesitate to pick some up and start making this wonderful corn relish.