Mom'S Raw Ripe Tomato Relish
A tangy, savory tomato relish with fresh vegetables and mustard seed, perfect for summer gatherings, sandwiches, or as a flavorful condiment for meats and cheeses.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the ripe tomatoes and drain them overnight in a colander set in a large, deep container.
- Chop the green pepper, onions, and celery, then mix them together.
- Stir the chopped vegetables into the drained tomatoes.
- Mix the salt, sugar, and mustard seed, then pour over the vegetables and tomatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresher taste, use garden-fresh tomatoes and adjust the salt based on your preference. If you want a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños to the mix. This relish can be made ahead of time for deeper flavors. If you're short on time, store-bought mustard seed can be a good substitute for fresh. Remember, letting the mixture sit overnight enhances the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This raw ripe tomato relish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a condiment on sandwiches. Serve it alongside crackers and cheese for a refreshing appetizer. It also complements dishes like Cheryl'S Meatballs or can be added to salads for a burst of flavor. Try it with your favorite vegan recipes for a delicious twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to a week. The flavors will continue to meld over time. For reheating, simply allow it to come to room temperature or lightly warm it in a saucepan. Avoid microwaving to prevent altering the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Raw Ripe Tomato Relish contains roughly 515 calories, with 5g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (87% of the Daily Value), iron (26% of the Daily Value), and potassium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1869mg per serving (81% 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?
While fresh tomatoes yield the best flavor and texture for this relish, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch. Drain them well and adjust the seasoning, as canned tomatoes can be saltier. However, the relish may lack the garden-fresh taste that makes this recipe special.
How long does this relish last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, this relish can last up to a week. The flavors intensify as it sits, making it even tastier over time. If you want to keep it longer, consider canning it following safe canning practices for preservation.
Can I modify the ingredients?
Absolutely! This relish is versatile. You can swap out the green pepper for a sweet red or yellow pepper for a different flavor profile. Adding herbs like basil or cilantro can also give it a unique twist. Feel free to adjust the sugar and salt levels to suit your 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).