The debate on the differences between a relish and a pickle has been going on for a long. Both of these food items contain the same ingredients, and their methods of preparation are also quite similar.
Most of the studies show that there is no such difference between the two except for their names. However, there are certain factors that do set them apart.
Relish vs. Pickle Comparison
Comparison Table
| Features | Relish | Pickle |
| Major ingredient | Sugar | Vinegar |
| The shape of fruits and vegetables | Chopped | Whole |
| Origin | England | Mesopotamia |
| Size of cucumber | Small | Large |
1. Pickle
The preservation of vegetables or fruits in a solution like vinegar or brine gives rise to the pickles.
There are different types of pickles depending on whether the pickle is made of vegetables or fruits. The ingredients making up the brine can also contribute to the varied types of pickles.
Talking about vegetable pickles, the most popular vegetable used is cucumber because of its reliable and delicious taste. However, you can also make savory pickles with onions, peppers, mushrooms, cauliflower, carrots, green beans, and beets.
When it comes to fruit pickles, you get the option of trying any type of fruit as per your choice. But the most flavored pickles are promised by using grapes, berries, cherries, or melon.
Culinary Uses
Pickles can go well with lots of items, including barbecued meat and salads. You can also use its juice to marinate meat. They can also be used with a variety of fast-food items, such as pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches.
The use of brine for the pickles ensures that the natural tinge of vegetables and fruits is preserved. It is also an essential factor for snacking the pickles for long periods of time.
Do Pickles Expire?
Despite being a hearty preservative, there is a certain expiration date associated with the pickles. Talking about the homemade pickle, it is safe to say that you can keep it in the refrigerator for 4 to 8 months.
If you have a jar of pickles in the fridge that hasn’t been opened yet, it is safe to be used up to two years past its expiration date. However, if you open it and keep it in the refrigerator, you can still use it one year after the expiration date.
The major signs of pickles going bad are the bulging of the lid and the slimy feel of the jar contents. If you notice these signs, do not use the pickles.
2. Relish
Relish is a combination of fruits and vegetables that are cooked and sweetened. It won’t be wrong to say that pickles are used for making relish. In simple words, the process is pickling which gives an outcome of relish.
Secondly, it’s not just the vegetables and fruits that have to be pickled and made into a relish. There are multiple options for ingredients used in relish. The latter is simply a condiment that is often used with plain food to bring flavor.
Technically there is no such requirement of pickles for a relish, but the relish served in the United States comes under the category of pickle relish.
Such relish is prepared by chopping the pickles, followed by seasoning them and using them to add flavor to other dishes.
Culinary Uses
A relish ensures the perfect amalgam of acidity and sweetness. In simple terms, you can also call a fresh slice of pineapple on a schnitzel a relish. They pair well with burgers, wraps, pizzas, nachos, and lots of other items.
They can also be used to enhance the flavors of potato and macaroni salads. You can toss them into a variety of stews, and they can also be used to make a dip.
With such culinary uses, it’s no wonder relishes are so widely used. What’s even better? You can also prepare relishes at home.
Does Relish Expire?
The expiry date of the relish is largely dependent on the storage conditions. The relish that has been opened can last in the refrigerator at its best quality for about 12 months.
When it has passed its storage time, there is a certain change in its texture and flavor. The relish needs to be discarded in case you sense an off-order.
Final Verdict
Both the pickle and relish are enjoyable food items, thanks to their fresh flavor and crunch. There are no such fundamental differences between the two. But you can set them apart by the way you preserve them.
Pickles are usually preserved with salt and vinegar. On the other hand, a mixture of salt/vinegar and sugar is used for the relish.