Mama'S Ripe Tomato Relish
A flavorful, tangy tomato relish with a hint of spice, perfect for preserving summer's bounty and enhancing meats, sandwiches, or cheese platters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the tomatoes, onions, bell pepper, and hot green peppers.
- Combine all ingredients in a large pot.
- Cook until the mixture thickens, about 1 1/2 hours.
- Pour into sterilized jars and can.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier relish, consider adding more hot peppers or using a hotter variety. You can substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter flavor. If you prefer a thicker consistency, cook the relish longer or blend a portion before canning. This relish pairs excellently with grilled meats, making it a versatile condiment in your kitchen.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mama's Ripe Tomato Relish as a zesty topping for burgers or as a side with grilled meats. It also complements cheese platters beautifully. For a delightful twist, try it as a condiment alongside steak or in a sandwich. This relish can also be used as a component in recipes like Steak Sauce (Victoria Sauce - Rhubarb) for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store the relish in sealed sterilized jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 weeks. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally to maintain its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mama'S Ripe Tomato Relish contains roughly 673 calories, with 8g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (275% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1025mg per serving (45% 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 canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned tomatoes if fresh ones are unavailable. However, the flavor and texture may differ slightly. Drain any excess liquid from the canned tomatoes to avoid a watery relish, and consider reducing the cooking time since canned tomatoes are already cooked.
How long can I store the relish?
When properly canned and sealed, this relish can last for up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, store it in the refrigerator and use it within 2-3 weeks for the best flavor and quality.
Can I make this relish without sugar?
Yes, you can omit the sugar for a less sweet relish. Keep in mind that sugar helps balance the acidity of the vinegar and enhances flavor, so you may want to experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup for a different taste.
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).