There are several ways to preserve green tomatoes. You can fry them, pickle them, or make green tomato chutney.
Checkout this video:
Introduction
Green tomatoes are unripe tomatoes that are picked and then allowed to ripen off the vine. Unlike ripe tomatoes, green tomatoes are firm and have a tart, slightly acidic flavor. They are best used in cooked dishes, as their flavor mellows and becomes sweeter when heated.
There are several ways to preserve green tomatoes, including canning, pickling, and freezing. Canning is the most reliable method for long-term storage but it requiresspecial equipment and a bit of practice. Pickling is a quick and easy way to preserve green tomatoes, and they will keep for several months in the fridge. Freezing is the simplest method, but green tomatoes will only keep for a few months in the freezer.
No matter which method you choose, make sure to start with fresh, firm green tomatoes. Inspect them for any signs of rot or damage, and wash them thoroughly before proceeding.
What are green tomatoes?
Green tomatoes are simply unripe tomatoes. They are harvested before they turn red and are commonly used in savory dishes. There are many ways to preserve green tomatoes, including canning, pickling, freezing, and drying.
Why preserve green tomatoes?
Green tomatoes are a great way to extend the growing season and enjoy fresh tomatoes well into winter. There are many ways to preserve green tomatoes, including canning, pickling, and freezing. Here are a few tips on how to preserve green tomatoes so you can enjoy them all year long.
Canning:
Green tomatoes can be canned using the water bath method. Start by sterilizing your jars and lids. Then, wash the tomatoes and remove the stems. Fill the jars with whole or sliced tomatoes, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of the jar. Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt to each jar for flavor. Finally, fill the jars with boiling water leaving 1 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean and screw on the lids. Process in a boiling water bath for 35 minutes. Let the jars cool for 24 hours before checking the seals and storing in a cool, dark place.
Pickling:
Green tomatoes can also be pickled using a simple vinegar brine. Start by washing the tomatoes and removing the stems. Cut the tomatoes into quarters or slices, depending on your preference. In a large pot, bring 2 cups of white vinegar, 2 cups of water, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of peppercorns to a boil. Add the tomato slices to the hot vinegar mixture and let boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the tomato slices to sterile jars. Pour the hot vinegar mixture over the tomato slices, filling each jar to within 1/2 inch of the top. Screw on lids and let cool completely before storing in a cool, dark place
How to preserve green tomatoes?
Green tomatoes are unripe tomatoes that are picked before they turn red. They are firmer and tarter than ripe tomatoes and have a lower water content. Green tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. You can eat them raw or cooked, but they are most commonly used in recipes that call for fried green tomatoes or green tomato chutney.
If you have an abundance of green tomatoes, you may want to preserve them for later use. One way to do this is by pickling them. You can also preserve green tomatoes by freezing or dehydration.
Tips for preserving green tomatoes
Green tomatoes are unripe tomatoes that will not turn red because they were picked before they were ripe. You can preserve green tomatoes by pickling, freezing, or making chutney.
Pickling green tomatoes is a great way to preserve them for later use. When pickling, you will want to use small, unripe tomatoes. You can pickle green tomatoes whole, in slices, or in chunks. To pickle whole green tomatoes, you will need to sterilize canning jars and lids. You will also need a canning pot or pressure cooker. Fill the jars with whole green tomatoes, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of the jar. To make a pickling solution, mix equal parts vinegar and water. Add spices such as peppercorns, garlic cloves or dill weed to the jars if desired. Pour the pickling solution over the green tomatoes, filling the jars to within 1/2 inch of the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean and screw on the lids tight. Process in a boiling water bath canner for 10 minutes. Remove from the canner and let cool. The pickled green tomatoes will keep for up to a year when stored in a cool, dark place.
Green tomatoes can also be frozen for later use. Freeze green tomatoes whole or in slices. To freeze whole green tomatoes, wash them and remove any blemishes. Leave the stem on the tomato but cut out any black spots around it. Place the whole green tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with wax paper and freeze for about 2 hours or until solid. Once frozen, transfer the tomatoes to freezer bags and label with the date before returning them to the freezer where they will keep for up to 8 months
Recipes using green tomatoes
Green tomatoes are not only delicious but also highly nutritious. They are a good source of fiber, vitamins A and C, folic acid, and potassium. While they can be eaten raw, green tomatoes are usually cooked. Here are some recipes using green tomatoes:
Fried Green Tomatoes: Slice green tomatoes thickly. Dip in beaten egg, then in cornmeal mixed with salt and pepper. Fry in hot oil until golden brown on both sides. Serve with ranch dressing or ketchup.
Green Tomato Chutney: Chop green tomatoes and cook with sugar, vinegar, onion, ginger, and spices until thick. Can be served with curry or used as a sandwich spread.
Green Tomato Pie: Line a pie plate with pastry. Fill with a mixture of chopped green tomatoes, sugar, flour, salt, lemon juice and spices. Top with another layer of pastry and bake until golden brown.
FAQs about preserving green tomatoes
1. Can green tomatoes be ripened indoors?
Yes, you can place them in a sunny window or in a warm room (70-80 degrees F is ideal). Check them daily, and once they start to turn red, use them immediately or place them in the refrigerator.
2. Is there an easy way to tell when green tomatoes are ripe?
The best way to tell if a green tomato is ripe is to gently squeeze it. If it gives to the touch and feels soft, it’s probably ripe. You can also cut into the tomato to check for ripeness. If the flesh is red or pink, it’s probably ripe.
3. How long do green tomatoes last once they’re picked?
Picked green tomatoes will last for about two weeks if they’re stored in a cool (55-60 degree), dark place. If you need to store them for longer than that, you can blanch them and freeze them.
4. Do I need to remove the stem before preserving green tomatoes?
No, you don’t need to remove the stem before preserving green tomatoes. However, if you plan on freezing them, you should remove the stem before doing so. This will help prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion
Here are some of the best methods for preserving green tomatoes:
-Canning: This is a great way to store green tomatoes for long periods of time. Just be sure to use a pressure canner to prevent them from going bad.
-Pickling: This is another great way to preserve green tomatoes. You can make pickles, relish, or chutney out of them.
-Freezing: This is a good option if you want to use your green tomatoes later in the year. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic before freezing.
-Drying: Another option for preserving green tomatoes is to dry them. This can be done in a dehydrator or even in an oven set on its lowest setting.
References
-The National Center for Home food preservation (NCHFP)
– Ball Complete Book of Home Preserving
– Sure Jell for Less or No Sugar Needed Recipes
