Nana'S Green Tomato Pie
Nana's Green Tomato Pie is a delightful Southern classic that perfectly balances the tartness of green tomatoes with the sweetness of sugar and spices. This unique dessert is ideal for those who appreciate a twist on traditional pies, making it a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the green tomatoes and place them into the unbaked pie shell.
- Mix the remaining ingredients: salt, sugar, vinegar, cinnamon, mace, cloves, and melted butter.
- Pour the mixture over the tomatoes in the pie shell.
- Cover with the top crust, fluting the edges, and make several slits in the top crust.
- Bake at 375°F for about 35 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter pie, consider using heirloom green tomatoes as they tend to have a more complex flavor. If you want to reduce sugar, try adding a little honey or maple syrup instead. You can also substitute the mace with nutmeg if you don't have it on hand. Be sure to slice the tomatoes thinly to ensure they cook evenly.
Serving Suggestions
This green tomato pie is delicious served warm or at room temperature. Consider pairing it with a light salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Christmas Applesauce Cake for dessert, providing a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
If you have leftovers, cool the pie completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, ensuring the crust stays crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nana'S Green Tomato Pie contains roughly 126 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 900mg per serving (39% 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 ripe tomatoes can be used, they will alter the flavor and texture of the pie significantly. Green tomatoes provide a tangy, tart flavor that is essential to this dish. If you decide to use ripe tomatoes, reduce the sugar to balance the sweetness.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the juices from the tomatoes are bubbling through the slits in the top crust. You can also insert a knife into the pie; it should come out clean and the filling should be tender.
Can I freeze the green tomato pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, you can bake it from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it's heated through.
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).