Name: Sweet & Tangy Green Tomato Relish – The Perfect Way to Save Every Last Garden Tomato
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-487483H57M8S
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups chopped green tomatoes; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/2 cup water; 2 teaspoons mustard seeds; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)

If you’ve ever had a garden full of tomatoes at the end of the season, only to watch some of them turn green before they ripen, you know the dilemma. But don’t worry, I have the perfect solution! This Sweet & Tangy Green Tomato Relish is an easy and delicious way to preserve those unripe tomatoes and create something truly unique. The combination of sweetness and tanginess in this relish is perfect for pairing with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even just as a side dish. Plus, it’s a great way to extend the life of your garden’s bounty, even after the growing season has ended. Sweet & Tangy Green Tomato Relish – The Perfect Way to Save Every Last Garden Tomato

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sweet & Tangy Green Tomato Relish is a delightful twist on the traditional tomato preserves. The sweetness comes from sugar and a touch of honey, while the vinegar gives it that tangy bite. The addition of spices like mustard seeds, cinnamon, and cloves brings depth and complexity, making this relish a stand-out condiment. I love how easy it is to make, and it’s the perfect way to use up green tomatoes. You’ll find yourself reaching for this relish again and again, whether it’s for a savory sandwich, a juicy burger, or even as an accompaniment to cheese and crackers.

Ingredients

4 cups chopped green tomatoes
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup water
2 teaspoons mustard seeds
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped (optional, for added sweetness and color)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large saucepan, combine the chopped green tomatoes, onion, and red bell pepper (if using).
Add the sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, mustard seeds, cinnamon, cloves, turmeric, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the relish thickens and the tomatoes break down.
Once the relish has thickened, remove from heat. Let it cool slightly before transferring it to sterilized jars.
Seal the jars and store them in a cool, dark place. For longer storage, process the jars in a hot water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing.

Servings and timing

This recipe will yield approximately 4-5 half-pint jars of relish. The prep time is about 20 minutes, and the cooking time will take around 45 minutes to 1 hour. The total time from start to finish is around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Variations

Spicy Relish: Add a chopped jalapeño or two to the mixture for a spicy kick.
Herb Twist: Try adding a few sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary for an herbal twist.
Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.
Sweetness Levels: If you prefer a sweeter relish, increase the sugar to suit your taste.

Storage/Reheating

Once the relish is made and sealed in jars, it can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 12 months. After opening a jar, keep it in the fridge and consume it within 2-3 weeks. To reheat, simply place the desired amount in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This relish can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

FAQs

How long will my green tomato relish last?

If sealed properly in jars, it will last up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, store it in the fridge and consume within 2-3 weeks.

Can I use ripe tomatoes instead of green ones?

Green tomatoes give this relish its unique flavor, so I wouldn’t recommend swapping them. Ripe tomatoes would make it too sweet and not have the same tangy balance.

Can I use other vinegars besides apple cider vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar is best for this recipe, but you could substitute white vinegar if you prefer. Just keep in mind it will slightly alter the flavor.

How do I know if my relish is thick enough?

The relish should have a jam-like consistency once it’s done cooking. If you run a spoon through it, it should leave a trail at the bottom of the pan.

Can I can this relish for long-term storage?

Yes! If you process the jars in a hot water bath for 10 minutes after sealing, this relish can be safely stored for long-term use.

Conclusion

Making Sweet & Tangy Green Tomato Relish is not only a fantastic way to save your green tomatoes, but it’s also a great way to create a flavorful condiment that’s sure to brighten up your meals. With its balance of sweet and tangy flavors, this relish adds a special touch to everything it pairs with. Whether you’re using it to complement grilled meats, as a sandwich spread, or enjoying it straight from the jar, this relish is a versatile treat that I’m sure you’ll love.