Hot Green Tomato Relish
A tangy and spicy green tomato relish perfect for summer barbecues or as a condiment for meats and cheeses. Its vibrant flavors of green tomatoes, onions, peppers, and a hint of heat make it a versatile addition to any meal that benefits from a zesty kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the tomatoes in a large, stainless steel or crockery container with the salt.
- Toss well and let stand for 3 hours.
- Drain the tomatoes, but do not rinse.
- In a large pan, combine 1/2 gallon vinegar with 8 cups sugar and heat to boiling.
- Add all vegetables (onions, green peppers, hot peppers) to the boiling mixture.
- Return to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Fill sterilized jars with the hot relish.
- Seal the jars and process for 10 minutes in a hot water bath.
- Allow jars to sit with lids covered off the heat for 10 minutes before storing.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your relish, consider adding a teaspoon of mustard seeds or dill seeds during the simmering process. If you're looking for a milder relish, reduce the amount of hot peppers or substitute with sweet bell peppers. Ensure your jars are properly sterilized before filling to prevent spoilage. This relish can also be used as a topping for grilled meats and sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hot green tomato relish as a condiment alongside grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a tangy topping for tacos. It also works well as a side dish with hearty meals, providing a zesty contrast. For an interesting flavor combination, try it with a refreshing Cranberry-Strawberry Salad to balance the heat.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of hot green tomato relish in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the jar in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 weeks. The relish can be enjoyed cold or reheated gently on the stovetop. If you have leftovers, it pairs well with dishes like Texas Gumdrop Cake for a sweet and savory contrast.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Green Tomato Relish contains roughly 533 calories, with 26g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (1111% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (110% of the Daily Value), and potassium (86% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2020mg per serving (88% 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
Can I use ripe tomatoes instead of green tomatoes?
While green tomatoes provide a unique tartness, you can use ripe tomatoes for a sweeter relish. However, the texture may differ, and you may want to adjust the sugar content accordingly to maintain a balanced flavor.
How long can the relish be stored?
Properly canned and sealed jars of hot green tomato relish can last for up to one year if stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 2-3 weeks to ensure freshness.
What can I substitute for vinegar in this recipe?
If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can substitute apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for the standard vinegar. Each will impart a unique taste, but be cautious with the acidity to maintain the relish's balance.
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).