Great Grandma Clow'S Green Tomato Relish
A tangy, spicy green tomato relish blending fresh vegetables with bold spices, perfect for enhancing meats, cheeses, or served as a flavorful condiment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind green tomatoes, green pepper, onions, and red pepper in a food processor.
- Place the ground vegetables in a plastic or pottery container with salt and enough water to cover.
- Stir all together, cover, and let stand for 24 hours.
- Drain the brine from the vegetables and transfer them to a large kettle.
- Add the remaining ingredients to the kettle.
- Mix spices with sugar before adding to the vegetables with the vinegar for better blending.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat slowly for about 30 minutes, stirring often.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken.
- Fill sterilized hot jars with the relish, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace, and seal with sterilized lids and rings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier relish, consider adding diced jalapeños or using a hotter variety of red pepper. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can increase the sugar slightly. Make sure to grind the vegetables finely for better texture, and always taste as you go to adjust the seasoning. For a twist, try adding a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or dill.
Serving Suggestions
This green tomato relish is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats and sandwiches, adding a zesty kick. Serve it alongside Helen'S Corn Salad for a refreshing contrast. It can also be used as a condiment for burgers or hot dogs, or as a tangy topping for crackers and cream cheese for an appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store the green tomato relish in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within two weeks. If you want to preserve it longer, consider canning it according to safe canning practices. Reheat gently on the stove if using as a warm topping for dishes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great Grandma Clow'S Green Tomato Relish contains roughly 2172 calories, with 33g protein, 328g carbohydrates, and 93g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (336% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (198% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1850mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I store this relish?
The relish can be stored in sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year if properly canned. Once opened, refrigerate and use within two weeks for the best flavor. Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming, especially if not refrigerated.
Can I use other types of tomatoes?
While green tomatoes are traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with other unripe tomatoes for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary, and you might need to adjust the sugar and vinegar levels to balance the flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for canning?
Yes, this green tomato relish can be canned. Make sure to follow proper canning techniques, including sterilizing jars and lids. Process the jars in a water bath for the recommended time to ensure they are sealed properly and safe for long-term storage.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).