Sarah BrownWhen it comes to enhancing a meal, old-fashioned pickled green tomatoes can add a burst of flavor. They pair beautifully with fried chicken, go great with sandwiches, and even spice up a charcuterie board.
These green gems can also be a delightful addition to salads or served alongside roasted meats. They’re versatile, offering that tangy twist that can turn an ordinary dish into something extraordinary.
If you’ve stumbled upon this recipe, you’re probably ready to make something truly unique – old-fashioned pickled green tomatoes. Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s take a stroll down flavor lane and chat a bit about what makes this dish so special.
What Is Old Fashioned Pickled Green Tomatoes?
Old-fashioned pickled green tomatoes are exactly what they sound like – green tomatoes pickled using a tried-and-true method. The tomatoes are quartered, soaked in a flavorful brine, and left to ferment until they achieve that perfect balance of tang and sweetness. They’re crunchy, tangy, and an adventure for your taste buds.
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What Does It Taste Like?
Trust me, the flavor profile of pickled green tomatoes is nothing short of a mouth-watering experience. Imagine biting into something that’s both crisp and succulent, with a punch of tanginess, subtle sweetness, and an undertone of earthy spices. These pickles are zesty yet balanced, bringing a zing to whatever dish you incorporate them into.
Why Does This Recipe Work?
1. Simplicity and Authenticity
This recipe hails from the annals of home-cooking history, standing the test of time due to its straightforward ingredients and methods. There’s no need for fancy gadgets or obscure ingredients.
2. Incredible Flavor
The specific combination of spices and vinegar ensures you get a balanced and bold flavor. It’s the kind of taste that surprises and delights.
3. Versatility
These pickled green tomatoes are extremely versatile. Eat them on their own, or pair them with other dishes. The possibilities are endless.
4. Long-Shelf Life
Stored correctly, these pickles can last for several months, providing a quick and tasty addition to meals with ease.
Ingredients For Old Fashioned Pickled Green Tomatoes Recipe
- 1 sterilized quart-sized canning jar with a lid
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and lightly crushed
- 2 pounds green tomatoes, cut into quarters
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup distilled white vinegar (5% acidity)
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Pickling Spices:
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon pink peppercorns (or substitute with additional black peppercorns)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
- 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
- 2 bay leaves, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill sprigs
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Jar
Start by sterilizing your quart-sized canning jar and its lid. This ensures that there’s no contamination that could spoil your pickles.
Step 2: Add Flavors
Place the garlic cloves at the bottom of the jar. Then, layer the quartered green tomatoes in the jar. Make sure they’re snug but not overly packed.
Step 3: Mix Brine
In a medium saucepan, combine water, distilled white vinegar, kosher salt, and granulated sugar. Bring to a boil. Stir until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved.
Step 4: Add Spices
Add the mustard seeds, crushed red pepper flakes, black peppercorns, pink peppercorns, dried dill weed, ground coriander, bay leaves, and fresh dill sprigs to the boiling mixture. Stir well.
Step 5: Pour Brine
Carefully pour the hot brine over the tomatoes in your jar. Ensure that the tomatoes are fully submerged in the liquid.
Step 6: Seal and Store
Seal the jar tightly and let it cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator. Allow the tomatoes to pickle for at least 48 hours before consuming for the best flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the jar is properly sterilized: This prevents bacteria from spoiling your pickles.
- Use distilled white vinegar with 5% acidity: It’s crucial for balance and preservation.
- Freshness of tomatoes: Pick green tomatoes that are firm and free from blemishes.
- Spice adjustments: The pickling spice quantity can be adjusted to taste.
- Cool properly: Let the jar cool to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Information
How To Store The Leftovers?
Store any leftover pickled green tomatoes in the same jar, ensuring that they’re submerged in the brine. Keep the jar sealed and refrigerated. They’ll last for several months if kept properly.
Sides For Old Fashioned Pickled Green Tomatoes
1. Fried Chicken
The tangy pickles complement the crispy, savory chicken perfectly. It’s a match made in heaven.
2. Sandwiches
Add these pickles to your sandwiches for an added layer of flavor. They bring a brightness that balances out richer ingredients.
3. Charcuterie Board
Include them in your next charcuterie board. They pair wonderfully with cured meats and cheeses.
4. Salads
Chop them up and toss them in your favorite salad. They bring a refreshing acidity that livens up the greens.
What Are Some Alternative Choices To The Ingredients In Case They Are Not In Your Pantry?
1. White Wine Vinegar
If you don’t have distilled white vinegar, white wine vinegar can offer a milder acidity.
2. Sea Salt
In case you’re out of kosher salt, sea salt is a good substitute.
3. Honey
If granulated sugar isn’t available, honey can work as a natural sweetener.
4. Other Spices
Don’t have mustard seeds or dill weed? You can experiment with other spices like cumin or fennel for a different twist.
old fashioned pickled green tomatoes recipe
Equipment
- Sterilized quart-sized canning jar with a lid
- Medium saucepan
Ingredients
Pickled Green Tomatoes:
- 1 sterilized quart-sized canning jar with a lid
- 2 cloves garlic peeled and lightly crushed
- 2 pounds green tomatoes cut into quarters
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup distilled white vinegar 5% acidity
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Pickling Spices:
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon pink peppercorns or substitute with additional black peppercorns
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
- 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
- 2 bay leaves crumbled
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill sprigs
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Jar
- Start by sterilizing your quart-sized canning jar and its lid. This ensures that there’s no contamination that could spoil your pickles.
Step 2: Add Flavors
- Place the garlic cloves at the bottom of the jar. Then, layer the quartered green tomatoes in the jar. Make sure they’re snug but not overly packed.
Step 3: Mix Brine
- In a medium saucepan, combine water, distilled white vinegar, kosher salt, and granulated sugar. Bring to a boil. Stir until the salt and sugar are completely dissolved.
Step 4: Add Spices
- Add the mustard seeds, crushed red pepper flakes, black peppercorns, pink peppercorns, dried dill weed, ground coriander, bay leaves, and fresh dill sprigs to the boiling mixture. Stir well.
Step 5: Pour Brine
- Carefully pour the hot brine over the tomatoes in your jar. Ensure that the tomatoes are fully submerged in the liquid.
Step 6: Seal and Store
- Seal the jar tightly and let it cool to room temperature. Store in the refrigerator. Allow the tomatoes to pickle for at least 48 hours before consuming for the best flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the jar is properly sterilized: This prevents bacteria from spoiling your pickles.
- Use distilled white vinegar with 5% acidity: It’s crucial for balance and preservation.
- Freshness of tomatoes: Pick green tomatoes that are firm and free from blemishes.
- Spice adjustments: The pickling spice quantity can be adjusted to taste.
- Cool properly: Let the jar cool to room temperature before placing it in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long do pickled green tomatoes need to sit before they’re ready?
Typically, they need at least 48 hours to fully develop their flavor. However, waiting a week can enhance the taste even more.
2. Can I use red tomatoes instead of green ones?
Yes, but the texture and flavor profile will change. Green tomatoes are firmer and tarter, making them ideal for pickling.
3. Do I need to use a specific type of vinegar?
Distilled white vinegar (5% acidity) is standard, but you can use other types if you adjust the acidity levels accordingly.
4. What do I do if the pickles are too salty?
Soak them in cold water for a few hours before serving to reduce the saltiness.
Conclusion
Old-fashioned pickled green tomatoes are a delightful mix of nostalgia and culinary finesse. They are easy to make, long-lasting, and blend seamlessly with a variety of dishes.
Whether you add them to your favorite meals or enjoy them straight from the jar, these tangy treats are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So why not give it a go? Once you’ve tasted these pickles, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.
