However, you say it: 4th of July, July 4th, or Independence Day; it is the grilling holiday. If you are like me, it turns into a grilling weekend! There is nothing better than standing outside and smelling your savory creations come to life. We prepare chicken, fish, ribs, and steak; with the more traditional fare, burgers, hot dogs, and brats. The Traditional food is always quick and easy, whether a simple family meal in the backyard, a picnic in the park, or a block party. Keeping with the quick and easy, if you want to impress and steer away from the standard toppings of ketchup and mustard, add a simple, fresh relish to your offerings. I was in the store recently, and they had big fresh juicy mangos. So mango relish it is! This relish is fresh, always in season, versatile, and requires very little prep time. I like to top grilled fish with it but since it is the 4th of July, let's do brats and dogs! 

Mango Relish

• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1 small jalapeño, minced
• 1 small red onion, peeled and diced
• ½ red pepper, diced
• Juice from ½ fresh lime
• 1 Tbsp Bourbon Barrel-Aged Maple Syrup or Whiskey Pig Maple Syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS

STEP 1 Let’s begin with a nice ripe mango. Don’t be intimidated by that pesky hard to see seed in the center. I generally start about a 1/4” from the center and slice all the way through. Do the same on the opposite side and then trim any remaining flesh. Next slice the flesh vertically and horizontally without breaking the skin. Now that the cubes are shaped invert the mango like you are turning it inside out. Scoop off the cubes close to the skin. Now dice the mango. There that was simple and the hardest part of preparing this relish! 

STEP 2 Combine the balance of the ingredients, cover and and chill for a minimum of an hour. I recommend preparing and using on the same day. It does keep overnight but that punchy freshness fades slightly. 

STEP 3 Prepare your Hot Dogs, Brats, and Burgers, don’t forget to toast those buns! Serve with the mango relish and enjoy the freshness and that hint of hmmm (that’s the bourbon peaking through). So Yummy!

Watch for a future post on a Baked Fish recipe; that is marvelous with this relish!

 ♡