History of relish?

Question

one of the most popular condiments along with ketchup and mustard, yet I can't find information on it's origins. How, and where did relish originate? what was it's initial purpose?

Answer 1

Relish probably came about from the need to preserve vegetables in the winter.

Answer 2

The word "relish" first appeared in English in 1798 and comes from the word "reles" which means in Old French, "something remaining".

Relishes probably came about out of a desire to preserve vegetables from the home garden for use during the winter months when no fresh produce was available. After using these fresh vegetables in their season, the 'remaining' crops were preserved with vinegar, salt and sugar, hence the name relish.