There’s something incredibly satisfying about a homemade condiment. It elevates even the simplest meal, adding a burst of fresh, vibrant flavor that you just can’t get from a store-bought jar. This Easy Chunky Tomato Onion Relish is exactly that kind of game-changer. It’s a sweet and savory concoction, bursting with the freshness of ripe tomatoes and the gentle bite of onion, all simmered down into a delightfully chunky spread. Perfect for topping burgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken, or even stirring into savory dishes, this relish is surprisingly simple to make and will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

I’m a big believer in fresh, seasonal flavors, and this relish truly shines when made with ripe, juicy tomatoes. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility and ease. Unlike some relishes that require extensive canning, this one is designed to be made quickly and enjoyed fresh (though it keeps well!). The chunky texture means you get a real bite of tomato and onion in every spoonful, and the balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes is just perfect. It’s fantastic for summer cookouts, bringing a vibrant, homemade touch to grilled meats and sandwiches. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up an abundance of garden tomatoes.

List of Ingredients

• 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, cored and diced (about 4-5 medium tomatoes)
• 1 large red onion, diced
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or more, to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• (Optional) 1 tablespoon fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Swaps and Notes

• Tomatoes: Any ripe, flavorful tomato variety will work. Roma tomatoes are good for less watery relish, but beefsteaks or even cherry tomatoes (halved or quartered) are fine. Don’t worry about peeling them; the skins soften during cooking.
• Onion: Yellow or white onions can be used instead of red, though red onion offers a nice color and a slightly milder raw flavor that mellows beautifully when cooked.
• Sugar: Adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of your tomatoes and your personal preference. Maple syrup or honey could also be used for a different sweetness profile.
• Vinegar: White vinegar can be substituted for apple cider vinegar, but the apple cider adds a nice fruity tang.
• Spices: Feel free to experiment! A pinch of celery seed, mustard seed, or even a bay leaf could add depth.
• Herbs: Fresh dill or oregano could also be lovely additions, stirred in at the end.

List of Steps for the Recipes

1. Prep Vegetables: Dice the tomatoes and red onion into roughly 1/2-inch pieces. Mince the garlic.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes & Seasonings: Add the diced tomatoes to the saucepan along with the apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer, uncovered, for 25-35 minutes, stirring occasionally. The relish should thicken significantly, and the vegetables should be very tender. The liquid should reduce, creating a chunky, jam-like consistency.
5. Cool & Serve: Remove the relish from the heat and let it cool completely before serving. As it cools, it will thicken further. If desired, stir in fresh chopped basil or parsley before serving.
6. Store: Transfer the cooled relish to an airtight container.

Tips for Success

• Ripeness Matters: Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor. They’ll have a natural sweetness that enhances the relish.
• Patience in Simmering: Don’t rush the simmering process. Reducing the liquid properly is key to achieving that perfect chunky, concentrated relish consistency.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste the relish as it simmers and adjust the sugar, vinegar, or salt to your preference. Do you want it sweeter? More tangy? A little more savory?
• Dice Evenly: Cutting your tomatoes and onions into similar-sized pieces ensures they cook evenly.
• For a Smoother Relish: If you prefer a less chunky relish, you can gently mash some of the tomatoes with a potato masher during the last 10 minutes of simmering.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Chunky Tomato Onion Relish is incredibly versatile! Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy it:

• Grilled Meats: It’s a natural fit for grilled burgers, hot dogs, sausages, or grilled chicken.
• Sandwiches & Wraps: Spoon it into your favorite deli sandwiches, wraps, or even grilled cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cheese Boards: It’s a fantastic addition to a cheese board, especially with sharp cheddar or goat cheese.
• Eggs: A dollop on scrambled eggs or an omelet adds a bright touch.
• Savory Dishes: Stir it into a pan of roasted vegetables, a lentil stew, or even use it as a base for a quick pan sauce.

For another fantastic savory dish that highlights tomatoes, check out my Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage – perfect for quick, flavorful weeknights. If you’re hosting a gathering, my Crockpot Nacho Dip or Beer Cheese Dip are always a hit.

Storage and Leftover Tips

This Easy Chunky Tomato Onion Relish stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Transfer the cooled relish to a clean, airtight jar or container. It will keep well for up to 2 weeks in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen and meld even more after a day or two, making it a great make-ahead condiment!

More Recipes You Will Love

If you appreciate the simple yet impactful flavors of this relish, here are a few other recipes from my collection you might enjoy:

• For another comforting and easy dinner, my Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is a family favorite.
• And if you’re looking for a delightful sweet treat to round out your meal or just enjoy with a cup of coffee, my Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is always a winner.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chunky Tomato Onion Relish is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s sweet, tangy, and bursting with fresh flavor, making it the perfect homemade addition to your summer barbecues, sandwiches, and so much more. Give it a try – I promise you’ll love having this vibrant condiment on hand! Let me know in the comments how you enjoy your relish, and don’t forget to follow Chef Maniac for more easy and delicious recipes!