Citrus-Pomegranate Relish

From the kitchen of Carly

Sweet-tart caramel meets bright citrus and jeweled pomegranate seeds in this glossy relish. The sherry vinegar sharpens the deep caramel while salt cuts through richness, making it the perfect sharp-sweet counterpoint to rich meats or creamy cheese boards.

Prep
n/a
Cook
n/a
Total
n/a
Servings
4
Difficulty
medium

Ingredients

4 servings

  • 11/2 cup sugar
  • 11/3 cup sherry vinegar
  • 1Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
  • 14 small oranges (such as blood or Cara Cara) or tangelos
  • 11/2 cup pomegranate seeds

Instructions

  1. Cook sugar undisturbed in a dry medium saucepan over medium-high until a ring around the edges is melted, about 5 minutes. Using a heatproof spatula, pull melted sugar in toward the center of saucepan. Continue to cook, pulling melted sugar into the center and reducing heat if sugar begins to smoke, until all sugar is melted and a deep caramel color, 6, 8 minutes. Remove from heat and carefully add vinegar (it will spatter and caramel will seize). Cook sauce over medium heat, stirring, until caramel dissolves; season generously with salt and pepper. If sauce tastes too tart, add more salt a pinch at a time to balance out. Let cool.

  2. Slice off ends from oranges; set on ends and remove skins and white pith. Slice oranges crosswise into 1/4"-thick rounds. Place in a large bowl; add pomegranate seeds and sauce and toss to coat.

  3. Relish can be made 1 week ahead. Cover and chill. Let sit at room temperature 2 hours before serving.