Green tomato relish is a tangy, savory condiment that’s perfect for adding a burst of flavor to burgers, sandwiches, and even grilled meats. This relish uses green tomatoes, which are firmer and less sweet than ripe ones, providing a more complex flavor that pairs wonderfully with rich and hearty dishes.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups green tomatoes, chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper (green or red), finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash the green tomatoes and chop them into small pieces. Peel and finely chop the onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
2. Cook the Relish
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add the chopped green tomatoes to the pot, along with the apple cider vinegar, sugar, mustard, mustard seeds, turmeric, ginger, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Simmer and Thicken
- Allow the relish to simmer on low heat, uncovered, for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally. The relish will reduce and thicken to a chunky, spreadable consistency.
- Taste the relish and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, sugar, or vinegar for balance.
4. Prepare Jars for Storage
- Sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
- Once the relish has thickened, ladle it into the hot sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
- Wipe the rims clean, place the lids on, and screw the rings on snugly.
5. Optional Water Bath Canning
- To preserve the relish for long-term storage, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
- Remove the jars and allow them to cool completely on a towel or rack. Ensure the lids are sealed properly before storing.
Storage:
- Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
- Once opened, refrigerate and use within 2-3 weeks.
Serving Suggestions:
- Spread generously on burgers, hot dogs, or sandwiches for a tangy, savory kick.
- Serve as a topping for grilled chicken or roasted meats.
- Pair with cheese and crackers on a charcuterie board.
- Add to wraps, tacos, or roasted vegetables for extra flavor.
Tips for Success:
- If you want a smoother relish, you can use an immersion blender to puree it to your desired consistency before canning.
- Green tomatoes tend to be firmer, so the relish will maintain some texture. If you prefer a softer relish, you can cook it longer until it breaks down more.
- Experiment with different spices, such as ground cumin or coriander, for a unique twist.
This savory green tomato relish adds a tangy and zesty flavor to your dishes, making it a perfect addition to your kitchen pantry and a great way to use up those unripe tomatoes!
