Pickled Carrot, Fennel, and Red Pepper Relish

Preparation

1. Step 1

   With a mandoline, another hand-held slicer, or a sharp knife cut carrots into short 1/8-inch-thick julienne strips. With a sharp knife cut bell pepper into short 1/8-inch-thick julienne strips. In a steamer set over simmering water steam carrots, covered, 5 to 6 minutes, or until crisp-tender, and transfer to a bowl. Steam bell pepper 1 to 2 minutes, or until crisp-tender, and add to carrots.

   Step 2

   Halve fennel bulb lengthwise and core. Cut fennel into short 1/8-inch-thick julienne strips. Halve onion lengthwise and cut into short 1/8-inch-thick julienne strips. Add fennel and onion to carrot mixture.

   Step 3

   In a saucepan bring remaining ingredients to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar, and pour over vegetables. Marinate vegetables, covered and chilled, at least 1 hour and up to 1 week.

   Step 4

   Serve relish chilled or at room temperature with poultry, veal, pork, or lamb.