Papa'S Hot Tomatoes
A fiery, tangy preserved tomato relish with hot peppers, perfect for adding a spicy kick to meals or serving as a flavorful condiment.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald and peel the small salad tomatoes.
- Put the peeled tomatoes into jars and mash down until the juice reaches the top.
- Add 1 medium hot pepper (jalapeno or chili) and 1/2 teaspoon salt per pint jar.
- Put the lids on the jars.
- Bring a hot water bath to boiling, ensuring the water covers the jars up to the lids.
- Boil the jars in the hot water bath for 35 minutes per pint.
Tips & Substitutions
For a milder flavor, consider using fewer hot peppers or opting for a less spicy variety. Substituting sea salt for regular salt can enhance the flavor of the tomatoes. Ensure jars are sterilized before use to prevent spoilage. This recipe can also be adapted for larger batches if you have an abundance of tomatoes available. Pairing these hot tomatoes with dishes like Sweet 'N Sour Kielbasa(Party Favorite) can create a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
These hot tomatoes can be served as a condiment alongside grilled meats or as a spicy addition to sandwiches. They pair well with cheese platters, adding a zesty kick. Consider serving them with crusty bread or incorporating them into a pasta dish for added flavor. They also complement salads beautifully, enhancing the freshness of the ingredients.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, keep the jars in the refrigerator and consume the contents within a week. To reheat, simply pour the tomatoes into a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. They can also be used as a topping for grilled meats or mixed into sauces.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Papa'S Hot Tomatoes contains roughly 4 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 485mg per serving (21% 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 larger tomatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use larger varieties of tomatoes, but keep in mind that they may require longer cooking times to ensure they're properly scalded and peeled. Additionally, larger tomatoes might not fit as neatly into jars, so consider cutting them into smaller pieces if needed.
What can I do if I don't have hot peppers?
If you don’t have hot peppers on hand, you can substitute with red pepper flakes or hot sauce to achieve a similar heat level. Adjust the quantity to your taste, as these alternatives can vary in spiciness compared to fresh peppers.
How can I make this recipe less salty?
To reduce the saltiness, simply use less salt than the recipe calls for. Start with a quarter teaspoon per pint jar and adjust according to your taste. You can always add more salt later when serving if desired, so it's best to err on the side of caution.
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).