Pickled Green Tomato Relish: A Tangy Recipe Guide
A Tangy, Flavorful Condiment Packed with Health Benefits and Easy-to-Follow Steps
Introduction
Green tomatoes aren’t just for frying—they also make a deliciously tangy relish! Pickled Green Tomato Relish is a versatile condiment that adds a burst of flavor to everything from sandwiches to grilled meats. With its perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory, this recipe is an excellent way to use up unripe tomatoes while preserving their freshness.
Not only is it easy to make, but it also comes with several health benefits. Pickling helps preserve nutrients and introduces probiotics, which are great for gut health. Ready to transform your green tomatoes into a flavorful relish? Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make delicious Pickled Green Tomato Relish:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🟢 Green Tomatoes | 2 lbs (about 6 medium) | Ensure firm and unripe for best results. |
| 🍶 White Vinegar (5% acidity) | 1 cup | Helps preserve and flavor the relish. |
| 🍬 Granulated Sugar | ½ cup | Adjust to taste for desired sweetness. |
| 🧂 Kosher Salt | 1 tbsp | Avoid iodized salt for a cleaner brine. |
| 🧅 Yellow Onion (diced) | 1 medium | Adds sweetness and texture. |
| 🧄 Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Optional, for added depth of flavor. |
| 🌱 Mustard Seeds | 1 tsp | Enhances the tangy and savory taste. |
| 🌱 Celery Seeds | 1 tsp | Optional, adds a subtle herbal note. |
| 🌶️ Red Pepper Flakes | ½ tsp | Optional, for a mild spicy kick. |
Equipment Needed
| Equipment | Purpose | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🍳 Large Mixing Bowl | To combine and mix the green tomatoes and vegetables. | A sturdy, non-reactive bowl works best. |
| 🔪 Knife and Cutting Board | For dicing the tomatoes, onion, and garlic. | Use a sharp knife for clean, uniform cuts. |
| 🧴 Mason Jars with Lids (sterilized) | To store the pickled green tomato relish. | Ensure jars are sterilized to prevent spoilage. |
| 🍲 Saucepan | For preparing the brine mixture. | A medium-sized saucepan should suffice. |
| 🥄 Ladle | To pour the brine into jars. | Ensure the ladle is heat-resistant. |
| 🔥 Stove | To heat the brine and simmer the ingredients. | Use medium heat to avoid over-boiling. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Green Tomatoes
Wash the green tomatoes thoroughly. Slice them into uniform pieces to ensure they pickle evenly. Set aside in a large mixing bowl. - Prepare the Brine
In a saucepan, combine the white vinegar, sugar, kosher salt, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir over medium heat until the sugar and salt dissolve completely. - Add Vegetables to the Brine
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the brine mixture. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to soften the vegetables and release their flavors. - Combine Tomatoes and Brine
Carefully add the prepared green tomatoes into the saucepan with the brine. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Pack the Mason Jars
Using a ladle, transfer the hot mixture into sterilized mason jars. Make sure the tomatoes are fully submerged in the brine. Leave about ½ inch of space at the top of the jar. - Seal and Cool
Close the jars tightly with their lids. Allow the jars to cool to room temperature. Once cool, refrigerate the relish for at least 24 hours before serving for the best flavor. - Serve and Enjoy
Once ready, serve your Pickled Green Tomato Relish as a tangy condiment with sandwiches, tacos, or grilled meats. Enjoy the burst of flavor in every bite!
Storage and Serving Tips
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Once the jars have cooled, store your Pickled Green Tomato Relish in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 2-3 weeks when properly sealed.
- Long-Term Storage: If you prefer to store the relish for a longer period, consider canning it using a water bath method. This will extend the shelf life to several months.
- Airtight Containers: Always ensure your jars are tightly sealed to prevent air exposure, which can affect the flavor and texture of the relish.
Serving Tips
- Sandwiches and Burgers: Spread the relish on sandwiches or burgers for a zesty twist.
- Grilled Meats: Use as a topping for grilled chicken, pork, or steak to add flavor and freshness.
- Salads: Mix a spoonful of relish into green salads or potato salad for an extra burst of flavor.
- Cheese Platters: Serve alongside cheese platters as a tangy, flavorful accompaniment.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (2 tbsp) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 15 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0 g |
| Sodium | 100 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Vitamin C | 2% of Daily Value (DV) |
| Calcium | 1% of Daily Value (DV) |
| Iron | 1% of Daily Value (DV) |
Health Benefits of Pickled Green Tomato Relish
- Supports Gut Health
Pickled foods, like this green tomato relish, contain probiotics that promote a healthy gut. The fermentation process encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria that aid digestion and support a balanced microbiome. - Rich in Antioxidants
Green tomatoes are rich in antioxidants such as lycopene and vitamin C, which help combat oxidative stress and support the immune system. These antioxidants also contribute to healthy skin and may lower the risk of chronic diseases. - Boosts Hydration
The brine used in pickling is high in water content, helping with hydration. Consuming pickled foods alongside meals can contribute to your daily water intake, especially in hot climates. - Low in Calories
Pickled Green Tomato Relish is a low-calorie condiment, making it a great option for those looking to add flavor without increasing their calorie intake. It’s a perfect addition to meals without compromising your health goals. - Supports Heart Health
Ingredients like mustard seeds, garlic, and celery seeds used in this relish have been shown to have heart-healthy benefits. Mustard seeds contain compounds that may help reduce blood pressure, while garlic has cholesterol-lowering properties. - Packed with Nutrients
The green tomatoes used in this relish provide essential nutrients like vitamin K, calcium, and potassium, which support bone health, muscle function, and overall vitality.
Supports Gut Health
Pickled foods, like this green tomato relish, contain probiotics that promote a healthy gut. The fermentation process encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria that aid digestion and support a balanced microbiome. For more details on the science behind fermentation and its health benefits, check out Healthline’s article on Fermented Foods.
Conclusion
Pickled Green Tomato Relish is a tangy, flavorful, and nutritious addition to your culinary repertoire. Its versatility makes it perfect for everything from sandwiches to grilled meats, and it’s an excellent way to use up green tomatoes in the season. Not only does it add bold flavors to your meals, but it also offers numerous health benefits, including gut support and antioxidant properties.
Ready to explore more unique and flavorful pickling ideas? Check out our Pickling Recipes: 30 Best Unique and Flavorful Preserves for more delicious ways to preserve fresh ingredients and elevate your meals.
