(Makes approx 12x8oz jars)

Ingredients

1kg raw beetroot, peeled + coarsely shredded (thin julienne strips are ideal if you have a mandolin or food processor that will do this)

750g red or white onions, finely sliced

750g apples, peeled, cored + grated

500ml red wine or cider vinegar (at least 5% acidity)

500g soft light brown sugar

2 tbsp peeled + freshly grated ginger

2 cloves garlic, peeled + crushed

2 sticks cinnamon

1 heaped tsp turmeric

2 tsp paprika or cayenne

1 level tsp ground cloves

Zest + juice of 2 oranges

A splash of port (optional)

Method

Put the ingredients in a large stainless steel preserving or heavy-based pan.

Heat the mixture until boiling, reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for about 1½ hours, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon, until the beetroot is tender and the liquid has reduced to a syrup consistency.

Remove the cinnamon sticks. Pot the relish into warm, sterilised jars; fill almost to the brim and seal immediately.

Once cooled, label and store in a cool, dark place; it should keep for a few months. Once opened, keep in the fridge and eat within a week.