Love the tangy zest of pickles but tired of the same old cucumbers? Then get ready to dive into a world of flavor with this simple pickled green tomato recipe! This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave a delicious and healthy side dish, or even a unique addition to your favorite sandwiches. It's surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks. These vibrant pickled green tomatoes offer a delightful sweet and sour kick, adding a homemade touch to any meal. Let's get started!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound green tomatoes, sliced about 1/4 inch thick
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 small red chili pepper, thinly sliced (optional, for added heat)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Tomatoes:
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Wash the green tomatoes thoroughly and slice them into even 1/4-inch thick rounds. The uniformity ensures even pickling.
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Pack the tomato slices tightly into a clean glass jar, leaving about an inch of headspace at the top.
Make the Brine:
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In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, mustard seeds, celery seeds, peppercorns, garlic, and chili pepper (if using).
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Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
Pickle the Tomatoes:
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Carefully pour the boiling brine over the packed green tomatoes in the jar, ensuring all the slices are submerged. Leave that inch of headspace!
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Wipe the rim of the jar clean to ensure a good seal.
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Cover the jar with a lid and let it cool completely at room temperature.
Refrigerate and Enjoy:
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Once cooled, refrigerate the jar for at least 24 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. The longer they sit (up to a week or more), the more flavorful they become.
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Enjoy your homemade pickled green tomatoes as a delicious side dish, sandwich topping, or even a unique addition to salads!
Tips for the Best Pickled Green Tomatoes:
- Use firm green tomatoes: Avoid tomatoes that are overly ripe or soft, as they won't pickle as well.
- Sterilize your jars: For optimal preservation, sterilize your jars and lids before using them. This helps prevent spoilage.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings to customize the flavor to your liking. Try adding dill, turmeric, or even a bay leaf!
- Don't overpack: Leaving enough headspace ensures proper sealing and prevents spoilage.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Pickled Green Tomatoes: Add more chili peppers or a dash of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Dill Pickled Green Tomatoes: Include a few sprigs of fresh dill for a classic pickle flavor profile.
- Garlic Lover's Pickled Green Tomatoes: Increase the amount of garlic to your preference.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 25-30
- Carbohydrates: 7-8g
- Sugar: 4-5g
- Sodium: High (due to salt)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Remember to consume in moderation due to the sodium content.
This simple pickled green tomato recipe is a great way to enjoy the bounty of the harvest, creating a flavorful and healthy treat for your taste buds. Enjoy!