Old-Fashioned Pickle Relish (Traditional Or Spicy) - cooking recipe

Ingredients

4 cups chopped cucumbers
2 cups chopped onions
1 cup chopped green bell pepper
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
1/4 cup plain salt
4 cups sugar
2 cups cider vinegar
1 tablespoon celery seed
1 tablespoon mustard seeds
1 tablespoon red pepper flakes (for the spicy version)

Preparation

Combine the cukes, onions, and peppers in a large bowl. Sprinkle with salt and cover with cold water. Place a layer of ice cubes on top to cover surface of relish.
Let stand 2 hours up to 12 hours.
Drain thoroughly, pressing out excess liquid.
Place drained veggies, sugar, vinegar and spices in a large stainless steel kettle. If making the spicy version, you will add your pepper flakes now also.
Bring to a boil over high heat watching so as not to scorch. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Pack hot into 1/2 pint jars.
Process in a water-bath for 10 minutes.