grandma’s old fashioned green tomato relish recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
grandma's old fashioned green tomato relish recipe
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The Best grandma’s old fashioned green tomato relish recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes that has been passed down for generations – Grandma’s old fashioned green tomato relish recipe. This recipe has been a staple in our household for as long as I can remember, and it’s a perfect addition to any meal. The combination of tangy green tomatoes, crunchy onions, and sweet spices is a flavor bomb that will leave you wanting more.

I’ve made this recipe for my family countless times, and it never fails to impress. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they always get so excited when they see the jar filled with that beautiful green relish. It’s not just a tasty addition to any meal, but it’s also packed with nutrients and antioxidants from the green tomatoes.

My grandma used to make this recipe all the time when I was growing up, and I would help her in the kitchen. She would always say that the key to making a good relish is to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and to never skip the step of letting it sit for a few hours before serving. It allows all the flavors to meld together and gives it that perfect balance of sweet and sour.

I’ve tried making this recipe with different types of tomatoes, but nothing compares to the flavor and texture of using green tomatoes. They’re slightly sweeter than red tomatoes, which makes them perfect for this recipe. My family loves serving this relish on hot dogs, burgers, or even as a side dish on its own.

It’s also a great addition to sandwiches or wraps for a burst of flavor.

Grandma's Old Fashioned Green Tomato Relish Recipe

Grandma’s Old Fashioned Green Tomato Relish Recipe

4.9 from 1784 votes

A classic, tangy relish made from unripe green tomatoes, perfect for canning and enjoying year-round. This recipe combines the crispness of green tomatoes with a mix of sweet and spicy flavors.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 4 16-ounce jarsCuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Relish

3 lbs green tomatoes, diced
1 large onion, finely chopped
1 large green bell pepper, finely chopped
3/4 cup white vinegar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp mustard seeds
1 tbsp celery seeds
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

For Canning

4 16-ounce jars with lids and rings
Water for boiling
Canning pot or large stockpot

👨‍🍳Directions

1Wash the green tomatoes and chop them into small pieces.
2Remove the seeds and core from the tomatoes as you chop.
Set aside.
3Finely chop the onion and green bell pepper.
4Add them to a large mixing bowl with the diced green tomatoes.
5Stir to combine.
6In a separate large saucepan, combine the white vinegar, granulated sugar, and brown sugar over medium heat.
7Stir until the sugars dissolve completely.
8Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9This will create a syrup-like consistency.
10Add the mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the saucepan.
11Stir well to combine the spices with the syrup.
12Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
13This will allow the flavors to meld together and create a fragrant spice mixture.
14Pour the hot syrup and spice mixture over the diced vegetables in the mixing bowl.
15Stir well to ensure that all the vegetables are evenly coated with the syrup.
16Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
17While the relish is resting, prepare the canning jars.
18Wash the jars, lids, and rings in hot, soapy water.
19Rinse thoroughly and keep them warm.
20This can be done in a dishwasher on the sanitize cycle or by placing them in a large pot of boiling water for 10 minutes.
21Bring a large pot of water to a boil in the canning pot or large stockpot.
22This water will be used to process the jars and create a seal.
23Place the jars in the boiling water and boil for 10 minutes to sterilize them.
24Keep the jars in the boiling water until ready to use.
25Using a ladle, fill each hot jar with the relish mixture, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace at the top of the jar.
26Remove any air bubbles by gently tapping the jar on the counter or using a non-metallic spatula to stir the relish.
27Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.
28Place the lids on the jars and screw on the rings until they are fingertip tight.
29Do not over-tighten.
30Place the filled jars back into the boiling water bath, ensuring they are covered by at least 1 inch of water.
31Boil the jars for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude if necessary.
32This will create a vacuum seal as the jars cool.
33Using a jar lifter, carefully remove the jars from the boiling water and place them on a towel-lined counter to cool.
34Listen for the lids to pop, indicating a successful seal.
35Allow the jars to cool completely, which may take several hours.
36Once cooled, check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid.
37If the lid does not flex, the jar is sealed properly.
38Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year.
39Once opened, store the relish in the refrigerator and use within 2 weeks.

🔧Equipment

Cutting board
Sharp knife
Large mixing bowl
Large saucepan
Canning jars
Canning pot or large stockpot
Ladle
Jar lifter

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 85g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 70g🥩Protein: 2g

📝Notes

Tips: This relish can be enjoyed immediately or canned for later use. It pairs well with meats, cheeses, and crackers. Adjust the spices to taste, adding more or less depending on your preference. For a spicier relish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.

Watch Video Of How Grandma’s Old Fashioned Green Tomato Relish Recipe Works

This grandma’s old fashioned green tomato relish recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a family gathering or just a weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Reheating it is simple – just microwave it for 10-15 seconds or heat it up on the stovetop until warm through. Serving ideas are endless – try serving it on hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, or as a side dish on its own.

You can also use it as a topping for tacos or grilled meats.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Grandma’s Old Fashioned Green Tomato Relish

Q: What type of tomatoes should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, you’ll want to use green tomatoes that are firm but not hard. You can find them at most farmers’ markets or specialty grocery stores during the summer months.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this recipe up to 2 weeks in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: What’s the best way to serve this relish?

This relish is perfect served on hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, or as a side dish on its own.

Q: Can I adjust the amount of sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste. Some people prefer their relish less sweet, while others like it more.

Q: How do I store leftover relish?

You can store leftover relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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