Green Tomato Relish

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Green Tomato Relish.

1. Step 1

   Start by gathering your fresh ingredients. In a large food-safe container, combine the green tomatoes, red bell peppers, green bell peppers, onions, apples, and cucumbers. Using a food grinder, grind them all together until you have a chunky mixture. Once ground, sprinkle in a scant cup of salt and let this mixture sit overnight. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften.

2. Step 2

   The next day, you’ll notice some liquid has accumulated. Drain off this excess liquid to ensure your relish isn’t too watery.

3. Step 3

   In a large kettle or stockpot, bring the distilled white vinegar to a boil. While it heats, prepare a spice bag using a closely-woven cloth. Inside this bag, combine the allspice, cloves, mustard, an additional tablespoon of salt, cinnamon, and turmeric. Once the vinegar is boiling, add the spice bag and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to infuse the flavors.

4. Step 4

   After 15 minutes, carefully remove the spice bag from the vinegar. Stir in the white sugar until it completely dissolves. Now, add your ground vegetable mixture back into the pot. Bring everything back to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer over medium-low heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, and cook until the relish becomes soft and slightly darkened in color, which should take about 20 minutes.

5. Step 5

   While your relish is simmering, it’s time to prepare your canning jars. Sterilize 11 pint-sized jars and their lids by boiling them in water for at least 5 minutes. This step is essential for safe canning.

6. Step 6

   Once the relish is ready, carefully pack it into the hot, sterilized jars. Fill each jar to within 1/4 inch of the top. To remove any air bubbles, run a knife or thin spatula around the inside edges of the jars. Wipe the rims with a moist paper towel to ensure a clean seal, then place the lids on top and screw on the rings securely.

7. Step 7

   Next, prepare your canning kettle. Place a rack in the bottom and fill it halfway with water. Bring this water to a boil over high heat. Using a jar holder, carefully lower the filled jars into the pot, ensuring there’s a 2-inch space between each jar. If needed, add more boiling water until it covers the jars by at least 1 inch. Cover the pot and process the jars in boiling water for 5 minutes.

8. Step 8

   Once processed, remove the jars from the kettle and place them on a cloth-covered or wooden surface, leaving space between them to cool. After they’ve cooled, press the center of each lid with your finger. If it doesn’t pop back, you’ve achieved a good seal! Store your relish in a cool, dark place, and enjoy the delightful flavors in your meals.