Jamie Oliver Beetroot Relish Recipe [GUIDE]

Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish is a tangy, vibrant condiment that brings out the earthy sweetness of beets while balancing it with a zesty, slightly sharp flavor. It’s a beautiful blend of roasted or cooked beets, vinegar, sugar and a few other simple ingredients. The relish is perfect for adding depth to sandwiches, burgers or even as a side for grilled meats. With its bold color and bold flavors, it’s an easy way to elevate any meal.

Jamie Oliver Beetroot Relish Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish, you don’t need a long list of hard-to-find ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Beetroot – This is the star of the show. Choose fresh, raw beets (the red ones work best for color and flavor).
2. Red Onion – Adds a mild sharpness and crunch.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar – For acidity and tang. You can also use white wine vinegar for a slightly different profile.
4. Sugar – To balance out the earthy beet flavor and bring a bit of sweetness.
5. Olive Oil – For sautéing the onions and giving the relish a smooth texture.
6. Garlic – A couple of cloves add richness and a subtle depth.
7. Spices (like cumin, coriander or mustard seeds). Jamie’s recipe may vary but these spices are often used to add a warm, aromatic note.

Optional ingredients might include fresh herbs or a little chili if you like a bit of heat.

Equipment Needed

For this relish, you don’t need fancy kitchen gadgets. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

1. Chopping Knife – A sharp one for dicing the onion and beetroot.
2. Grater or Food Processor. If you prefer a finer texture, grating the beetroot works well or a food processor can do the job quickly.
3. Frying Pan or Saucepan. You’ll need this for cooking the onions and garlic and for simmering the relish.
4. Jar or Airtight Container. To store the relish once it’s made. A glass jar works best for keeping the color and flavors intact.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish

1. Prepare the Beets: First, peel and grate or finely chop your beetroots. You can also roast or boil them but grating gives it that ideal relish texture.
2. Cook the Onion & Garlic: In a frying pan, heat a bit of olive oil and gently cook your finely chopped onion and garlic until softened and golden. This is where a lot of the flavor will come from.
3. Add Beets & Spices: Once the onions are cooked, toss in your grated beetroot and let it cook down a bit. At this point, you can add your spices. cumin or mustard seeds work wonders.
4. Add Sweetness and Tang: Pour in the vinegar and sugar, stirring to combine. The sugar will dissolve and the vinegar will cut through the earthiness of the beetroot.
5. Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you want it sweeter, add more sugar; if you prefer it tangier, a little extra vinegar can balance it out.
6. Cool and Store: Once it’s done, remove from the heat and let it cool before transferring it to a jar. The relish will last for weeks in the fridge, so it’s perfect for making ahead.

What I Learnt

Making Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish was surprisingly simple but the flavors really pack a punch. I learned that the combination of sweet, earthy beetroot with tangy vinegar and spices can elevate even the simplest meals. The richness of the garlic and onion base gave the relish a depth that you might not expect from such a straightforward recipe.

I also discovered how flexible the recipe is. You can easily adjust the sweetness or tanginess to suit your preferences and the relish only gets better as it sits and the flavors continue to develop. I was also impressed by how little time it took to make something so vibrant and versatile. It’s definitely a great option for home cooks looking to add a special touch to their meals.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish

Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish is pretty solid as is but a few tweaks can make it even more personalized or just give it a new twist. If you’re feeling adventurous or want to cater to specific tastes, here’s what you can do:

• Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, throw in a chopped chili or two. Red or green chilies work great, depending on how much spice you’re after. This adds a vibrant burst of flavor without overpowering the beetroot’s earthiness.
• Smoked Paprika: Instead of regular paprika, go for smoked paprika. It’ll give the relish a deep, smoky flavor that balances out the sweetness of the beetroot. It’s a small change that can make a big difference!
• Citrus Zing: Add some orange zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. A little citrus can cut through the richness and add some refreshing brightness to the relish, especially if you’re pairing it with heavier dishes.
• Sweeteners: While sugar and honey are common choices, you could experiment with maple syrup or agave for a slightly different sweetness. This is also a great option if you want to make it vegan-friendly.
• Herbal Twist: Throw in some fresh thyme or rosemary instead of the usual parsley or coriander. Herbs like these add a fragrant, woody note that works really well with the sweetness of the beets.
• Vinegar Swap: Apple cider vinegar gives it a nice tang but balsamic vinegar adds a richer, more robust flavor. Try swapping one for the other and see which one sings to you more.

Storage Tips For Leftovers

Beetroot relish can definitely be a keeper but proper storage is key to keeping it fresh.

• In the Fridge: Once it’s cooled, store the relish in an airtight jar or container. It’ll last around 1-2 weeks in the fridge. Just make sure the jar is sealed properly to keep out moisture and air which can speed up spoilage.
• Freezing: If you’ve made a big batch and don’t want it to go to waste, beetroot relish freezes really well. Spoon it into a freezer-safe container, leaving a little space at the top for expansion and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Sterilize Your Jars: If you’re planning to store your beetroot relish for longer periods, sterilize the jars before filling them. Boil them for 10 minutes and let them air dry completely. This will help preserve the relish for several months in the fridge.
• Top Off with Oil: For extra freshness, you can pour a thin layer of olive oil on top of the relish before sealing the jar. The oil creates a barrier between the relish and air which can help keep it fresher for a longer time.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish?

This relish isn’t just a condiment. it’s an experience. It pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, adding that sweet and tangy bite. Here are some fantastic options:

• Cheese Platters: Beetroot relish is a natural partner for cheese, especially sharp ones like goat cheese, feta or even a strong cheddar. The sweetness of the beets balances out the creaminess and sharpness of the cheese, creating a perfect bite.
• Grilled Meats: It goes wonderfully with grilled meats like lamb, pork or even a juicy steak. The earthy depth of the beetroot complements the smoky flavors of the meat, making for a rich, satisfying meal.
• Veggie Burgers: If you’re a fan of veggie burgers (or plant-based patties), the relish adds a punchy contrast. The sweetness pairs perfectly with the hearty flavors of grains or legumes in the burger.
• Sandwiches & Wraps: Add a spoonful of beetroot relish to a sandwich or wrap for a fun twist. It’s perfect in a turkey or roast beef sandwich or even as a topping for a falafel wrap.
• Roasted Vegetables: Beetroot relish can bring out the best in any veggie dish. The acidity from the vinegar cuts through the sweetness of roasted vegetables, creating a balanced flavor profile.
• Grains & Salads: Try it alongside quinoa, couscous or a simple green salad. The relish brings a tangy edge that livens up any grain-based dish, especially if you’re adding nuts or seeds for texture.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish?

You’ll need beetroots, onions, garlic, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and a mix of spices like ginger and mustard seeds.

How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish?

The whole process takes around 1 hour, including cooking and cooling time.

Can I Store Jamie Oliver’s Beetroot Relish, And For How Long?

Yes, you can store it in sterilized jars for up to 3 weeks in the fridge.