Pear Relish

1 . Stage

Place pears into a large stock pot, add water to cover, and boil until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain and cool. When pears are cool, peel, core, and coarsely chop.

2 . Stage

Place pears, onions, green bell peppers, and jalapeno peppers into a food processor, working in batches if necessary, and chop the pears and vegetables finely. Transfer pears and vegetables, including any juice, to a large pot.

3 . Stage

Stir vinegar, sugar, prepared mustard, and salt into the pear mixture and bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until flavors have blended and relish is thickened, about 1 hour.

4 . Stage

Sterilize jars and lids in boiling water for at least 5 minutes. Pack pear relish into the hot, sterilized jars, filling the jars to within 1/4 inch of the top. Run a knife or a thin spatula around the insides of the jars after they have been filled to remove any air bubbles. Wipe the rims of the jars with a moist paper towel to remove any food residue. Top with lids and screw on rings.

5 . Stage

Place a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill halfway with water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then carefully lower the jars into the pot using a holder. Leave a 2-inch space between the jars. Pour in more boiling water if necessary until the water level is at least 1 inch above the tops of the jars. Bring the water to a full boil, cover the pot, and process for about 20 minutes or the amount of time recommended for your area.

6 . Stage

Remove the jars from the stockpot and cool. Once cool, press the top of each lid with a finger, ensuring that the seal is tight (lid does not move up or down at all). Store in a cool, dark area.