Summer's bounty often leaves us with an abundance of green tomatoes. Don't let them go to waste! This easy green tomato relish recipe transforms those slightly tart fruits into a vibrant and flavorful condiment perfect for adding a zing to any meal. It's a quick and easy recipe, ideal for homemade cooking enthusiasts looking for delicious dishes, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, delivering a burst of fresh flavor that elevates your culinary game.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds green tomatoes, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 teaspoon mustard seed
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (for color and a slight earthy flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
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Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop all the vegetables. Make sure the tomatoes and onion are roughly the same size for even cooking. Smaller pieces will cook faster.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large, non-reactive saucepan (stainless steel or enamel), combine the chopped tomatoes, onion, green bell pepper, sugar, vinegar, water, salt, celery seed, mustard seed, turmeric, and black pepper.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the relish has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Sterilize Jars (Optional): If you plan to can the relish, sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. This ensures a longer shelf life and prevents spoilage. If you plan to store the relish in the refrigerator, this step is not necessary.
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Fill Jars and Cool: Ladle the hot relish into the sterilized jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean, apply lids and rings, and process according to your preferred canning method (if canning). If not canning, allow to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating.
Tips for the Best Green Tomato Relish:
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet relish, reduce the sugar by ¼ cup. Taste and adjust as needed.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can complement the flavors beautifully. Add them during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
- Use Different Peppers: Experiment with other peppers like jalapeños (for extra heat) or a mix of bell peppers for a vibrant color.
Variations:
- Spicy Green Tomato Relish: Add 1-2 jalapeños, finely minced, for a spicy kick.
- Sweet and Tangy Relish: Increase the sugar slightly and add a tablespoon of lemon juice for extra tang.
- Zesty Green Tomato Relish: Add the zest of one lime or lemon for a brighter flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 1-2g
- Fat: 0g
This easy green tomato relish is a delicious and versatile condiment that can be enjoyed in countless ways. It's fantastic served alongside grilled meats, fish, or poultry, as a topping for sandwiches and burgers, or as a flavorful addition to eggs. Enjoy the abundance of summer's harvest with this simple and satisfying recipe! It’s truly one of the best recipes for using up those extra green tomatoes and a wonderful addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meal options.