If you’re an avid gardener, you know that fall can bring a bounty of green tomatoes. Instead of waiting for them to ripen, why not try some delicious green tomato recipes? If you’re not a gardener, don’t worry—green tomatoes are available at most farmers’ markets and grocery stores. In this article, we’ll explore 10 recipes that showcase the versatility of green tomatoes.
Fried Green Tomatoes
No green tomato recipe list is complete without the classic fried green tomatoes. This southern delicacy is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Here’s how:
Ingredients:
– 4 green tomatoes, sliced into ½-inch rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup cornmeal
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, and pepper.
2. In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
3. In a third shallow dish, add the cornmeal.
4. Dip each tomato slice into the flour mixture, then the eggs, and finally the cornmeal.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Once the oil is hot, add the tomato slices and fry for about 3 minutes each side or until golden brown.
7. Drain the tomatoes on a paper towel to remove any excess oil.
8. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Green Tomato Salsa
Another great way to enjoy green tomatoes is by making a salsa out of them. This recipe is fresh, flavorful, and perfect for tacos, chips, or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 green tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
2. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
Green Tomato Chutney
Chutney is a condiment that originated in India and is often made with fruits or vegetables. This green tomato chutney is a fantastic way to use up your green tomatoes while enjoying an authentic Indian dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 green chilies, chopped
– 1 inch ginger, grated
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp cumin seeds
– 1 tsp coriander seeds
– 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cumin and coriander seeds, and cook until the seeds start to pop.
3. Add the onion, green chilies, ginger, and garlic, and cook until the onion is softened.
4. Add the green tomatoes, salt, turmeric powder, sugar, and vinegar to the pan and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat and simmer until the chutney has thickened, stirring occasionally.
6. Transfer the chutney to a jar and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Green Tomato Soup
Green tomato soup is a unique and delicious spin on traditional tomato soup. It’s perfect for a cozy fall night or a midday lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, celery, and carrots, and cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the green tomatoes, broth, and thyme.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30 minutes.
5. Puree the soup in a blender or with an immersion blender until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Green Tomato Tart
This green tomato tart is a showstopper and is perfect for a dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, sliced
– 1 cup goat cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped herbs (basil, parsley, thyme)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Place the pie crust in a tart pan and prick the bottom with a fork.
3. Spread the goat cheese evenly over the bottom of the crust.
4. Top the cheese with the sliced green tomatoes.
5. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs and herbs over the tomatoes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the tart is golden brown.
Green Tomato Relish
Relish is a condiment that is often used on hot dogs or burgers. This green tomato relish is tangy and sweet and will take your hot dogs to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 tsp mustard seeds
– 1 tsp celery seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine all the ingredients in a large saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce the heat and simmer until the relish has thickened, stirring occasionally.
3. Transfer the relish to a jar and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Green Tomato Juice
If you’re looking for a healthy and unique drink option, try making green tomato juice. It’s packed with vitamins and nutrients and is a great way to use up your green tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 green apple, chopped
– 1/2 lemon, juiced
– 1 inch ginger, grated
Instructions:
1. Combine all the ingredients in a blender or juicer and blend until smooth.
2. Strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pulp.
3. Serve over ice.
Green Tomato Pickles
Pickles are a fantastic way to preserve your green tomatoes and enjoy them throughout the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cups white vinegar
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 tbsp mustard seeds
– 1 tbsp celery seeds
– 2 tbsp salt
Instructions:
1. Combine all the ingredients in a large saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes.
3. Transfer the pickles to a jar and keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Green Tomato Jam
Jam is not just for toast—you can use it as a glaze for meats or as a topping for cheese boards. This green tomato jam is sweet and savory and pairs well with a variety of dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/2 tsp cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ginger
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Combine all the ingredients in a large saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce the heat and simmer until the jam has thickened, stirring occasionally.
3. Transfer the jam to a jar and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Concluding Thoughts on Green Tomato Recipes
As you can see, there are plenty of green tomato recipes to choose from. From classic fried green tomatoes to unique green tomato jam, there’s something for everyone. Don’t let your green tomatoes go to waste—try one of these recipes today.
FAQs about Green Tomato Recipes
Q: Can I use any type of green tomato for these recipes?
A: Yes, you can use any variety of green tomato for these recipes.
Q: How long do green tomatoes last?
A: Green tomatoes can last for up to a week at room temperature or up to two weeks in the fridge.
Q: Can green tomatoes be eaten raw?
A: Yes, green tomatoes can be eaten raw, but they are often sour and acidic.
Q: Can I freeze green tomatoes?
A: Yes, green tomatoes can be frozen for up to a year. It’s recommended to blanch them in boiling water for 1 minute first.
Q: Can I substitute green tomatoes for ripe tomatoes in recipes?
A: It’s not recommended to substitute green tomatoes for ripe tomatoes in recipes because they have a different taste and texture.
