Delicious Ways to Can Green Tomatoes: Recipes for Preserving Summer's Bounty
Green tomatoes, those tart and tangy fruits that often get overlooked at the end of the season, can be transformed into a delightful culinary treasure with a little bit of canning magic. Preserving green tomatoes allows you to savor their unique flavor long after the summer has passed. Here are some mouthwatering recipes to get you started:
1. Green Tomato Pickles
**H2: ** These tangy and crunchy pickles are a classic for a reason. The green tomatoes add a delightful bite, while the spices and vinegar create a symphony of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds green tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup onion, sliced
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon dill seeds
Instructions:
- Combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, peppercorns, mustard seeds, and dill seeds in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.
- Pack sliced green tomatoes and onions tightly into sterilized jars, leaving 1 inch headspace.
- Pour hot pickling brine over tomatoes and onions, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Wipe jar rims, seal with lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
2. Green Tomato Relish
H2: This vibrant relish adds a burst of flavor to any meal. It's perfect for topping hot dogs, burgers, or sandwiches.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds green tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes are softened.
- Ladle hot relish into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Wipe jar rims, seal with lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes.
3. Green Tomato Chow Chow
H2: Chow chow is a traditional Southern relish that combines green tomatoes, cabbage, and spices. The result is a tangy and flavorful side dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds green tomatoes, chopped
- 1 head cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened.
- Ladle hot chow chow into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace.
- Wipe jar rims, seal with lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes.
4. Green Tomato Jam
H2: This sweet and tangy jam is perfect for spreading on toast or enjoying with cheese.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds green tomatoes, chopped
- 4 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until jam thickens.
- Ladle hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
- Wipe jar rims, seal with lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Tips for Canning Green Tomatoes:
- Use firm, unblemished green tomatoes.
- Sterilize jars and lids before canning.
- Follow recipe instructions carefully.
- Process jars in a boiling water bath for the recommended time.
- Store canned green tomatoes in a cool, dark place.
Enjoy the taste of summer all year long by preserving your green tomatoes with these delicious recipes!
