Mother'S Green Tomato Mincemeat
A flavorful green tomato mincemeat with warm spices and tangy vinegar, perfect for spreading on toast or filling pastries, delighting those who enjoy traditional fruit preserves.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped tomatoes, fat, vinegar, brown sugar, seedless raisins, citron (if using), ground cloves, and cinnamon in a large pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the mixture thickens and flavors meld, about 1-2 hours.
- Optionally, add leftover jelly, fruit juice, or boiled cider for extra flavor.
- Transfer to sterilized jars and seal. Store in a cool, dark place.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, consider blending the mixture after cooking. If you don't have brown sugar, you can substitute with white sugar and a bit of molasses. If citron isn't available, try using chopped candied orange peel for a similar citrus flavor. Using homemade cake flour can help thicken the mixture if needed, although it's not necessary.
Serving Suggestions
This green tomato mincemeat pairs beautifully with warm biscuits or as a filling for pastries. It can also be served alongside savory dishes like roasted meats or used as a condiment in sandwiches. For a festive touch, consider offering it as a topping for holiday desserts or alongside a cheese platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cellar. Once opened, keep the mincemeat in the refrigerator where it will last for several weeks. If you want to enjoy it warm, gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mother'S Green Tomato Mincemeat contains roughly 2063 calories, with 15g protein, 378g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (68% of the Daily Value), iron (55% of the Daily Value), and calcium (48% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1019mg per serving (44% 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 regular tomatoes instead of green tomatoes?
Using regular ripe tomatoes will change the flavor profile, making it sweeter and less tangy. Green tomatoes provide a unique tartness that balances the sweetness of the sugar and raisins, creating a more complex mincemeat.
How long can I store the mincemeat?
If properly sealed in sterilized jars, the mincemeat can last for up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it should be refrigerated and used within a few weeks to enjoy its best flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan since it doesn't contain any animal products. Just ensure that any additional ingredients you choose, like jelly or fruit juices, are vegan-friendly as well.
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).