All Natural, No Preservatives
“I’m dancing right now!!!” This was the text message I received from Scott, my husband, when I informed him of the plan to make zucchini relish with my mom last fall. He’s my mother’s biggest relish fan, the one who can hardly eat a bratwurst or hot dog without the sticky condiment dripping out each end of the bun. It had been a couple of years since my mom had made the family relish recipe. The cupboards were bare, thus it was time to make more. Scott’s response was pure, uninhibited excitement. Really…he’s not a dancer.
After a trip to the farmer’s market to pick up zucchini, onions, and red peppers we were set. My mom brought the spices, sugar, and most importantly, the recipe. It was a two-day job! The night before, we grated cup after cup of zucchini and diced the other vegetables. The kitchen smelled fabulous! We rose early the next morning to get started.
Mom and I prepared, stirred, and cooked the concoction. We filled boiling hot sterilized jars and waited patiently to hear the lids seal, cheering when we’d hear each “plink” from the jars. There’s a reason pioneer women were so tired. Canning is tedious, hard work! We were exhausted by the end of the day. Our zucchini relish looked so good and tasted even better. All natural ingredients, no preservatives.
Making healthy, natural foods for my family is important to me. I grew up with homemade and I typically make our meals from scratch. Yes, we do take out. Yes, I jazz up spaghetti sauce from a jar for quick meals. I use condensed soups. (And my boys would prefer mac & cheese from the box than my homemade version. Ugh!)
My mom and I vowed to make zucchini relish again this year. It’s not only a fun time in the kitchen with my mom, but since I gave away quite a few jars of the relish, we’re almost out. My husband is thrilled as the time is soon approaching. It’s happy dance time!
Taste and see that the Lord is good;
blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.
Psalm 34:8
© 2013 Becky Danielson. All rights reserved.
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