Picadilli
Picadilli is a tangy, flavorful pickled green tomato and pepper relish, perfect as a condiment or accompaniment for meats and cheeses, offering a delightful mix of spicy and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the cut-up green tomatoes in an enamel pot and pour enough vinegar over them to cover.
- Sprinkle a heaping tablespoonful of salt over the tomatoes and let stand overnight.
- Add the chopped green and red sweet peppers, hot peppers, chopped onion, pickling spices, and sugar to taste.
- Pour enough vinegar to cover the mixture, about half a gallon.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer until flavors meld and vegetables are tender, about 30-45 minutes.
- Remove from heat, pack into sterilized jars, and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using more hot pepper pods or a dash of cayenne pepper. If green tomatoes are hard to find, you can substitute with unripe regular tomatoes. When adding sugar, do so gradually, tasting as you go to achieve your desired sweetness. Don't skimp on the vinegar; it’s key for flavor and preservation.
Serving Suggestions
Picadilli makes a fantastic condiment for grilled meats or as a zesty topping for sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with Harvard Beets, Heart Cookbook for a colorful meal. Consider serving it alongside cheese platters or as a dip with crackers for a delightful appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in sterilized jars and keep them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider canning the picadilli. To enjoy it warm, gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid boiling to preserve flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Picadilli contains roughly 182 calories, with 5g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (226% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 green tomatoes are traditional for this recipe, you can use unripe ripe tomatoes as a substitute. This will alter the flavor slightly, making it a bit sweeter. Just ensure they're firm and not overly ripe to maintain the desired texture.
How long will the picadilli last once opened?
Once opened, picadilli can last in the refrigerator for about two weeks if stored properly in a sealed container. For longer preservation, consider canning it using proper techniques to ensure food safety and extend its shelf life.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that any added ingredients, like sugar, are vegan-friendly, as some sugars may be processed with bone char. Enjoy it as a vibrant addition to any vegan meal.
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).