green tomato jelly recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
green tomato jelly recipe
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The Best green tomato jelly recipe

I’ve been making this green tomato jelly recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic Southern dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings and barbecues.

The tangy flavor of the green tomatoes pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the sugar and the spices. It’s a great way to preserve the harvest and enjoy the flavors of summer year-round.

I love serving it on toasted bread or crackers, and it’s also delicious as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal. My kids love helping me make it in the kitchen, and it’s a great way to teach them about cooking and preserving food.

The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and some basic canning skills. I’ve experimented with different variations over the years, but this recipe remains one of my favorites.

The key to making great green tomato jelly is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overcook the mixture – you want to preserve the bright, grassy flavor of the tomatoes. It’s a technique that requires patience, but trust me, it’s worth it.

Green Tomato Jelly

Green Tomato Jelly

4.8 from 1318 votes

A sweet and tangy jelly made from unripe green tomatoes, perfect for spreading on toast or pairing with cheese. This recipe transforms garden surplus into a delightful preserve with a beautiful amber hue.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time60 mins
Servings: 64 servings (makes about 8 half-pint jars)Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 50 kcal per tablespoon

🥘Ingredients

For the Jelly

4 pounds green tomatoes, cored and chopped
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 package (1.75 oz) powdered fruit pectin
5 cups granulated sugar

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the chopped green tomatoes and water in a large stockpot.
2Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20 minutes, until the tomatoes are very soft and have released their juices.
3Pour the cooked tomato mixture into a cheesecloth-lined sieve or jelly bag set over a large bowl.
4Let the juice drip for at least 2 hours without pressing, to yield a clear liquid.
5You should have about 4 cups of juice.
6Measure exactly 4 cups of the tomato juice into a clean stockpot.
7Stir in the lemon juice and powdered pectin until fully dissolved.
8Bring the mixture to a full rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly.
9Add the sugar all at once and stir until completely dissolved.
10Return the mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down, and boil for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly.
11Remove the pot from heat and skim off any foam with a metal spoon.
12Ladle the hot jelly into sterile jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
13Wipe the rims clean, apply lids and bands, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.

🔧Equipment

Large stockpot or preserving pan
Cheesecloth or jelly bag
Large bowl
8 half-pint canning jars with lids and bands
Water bath canner
Jar lifter
Canning funnel
Wooden spoon
Thermometer (optional)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 50 kcal🧈Total Fat: 0g💛Saturated Fat: 0g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 5mg🌾Total Carbs: 13g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 13g🥩Protein: 0g

📝Notes

For best results, use firm, unripe green tomatoes. The jelly will set as it cools; if it does not set after 24 hours, you can reboil with additional pectin. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year.

Watch Video Of How Green Tomato Jelly Works

This green tomato jelly is a reliable recipe that always gets compliments. I make it every year when the garden winds down, and it never fails to impress.

It is a great way to use up a surplus of green tomatoes and create something special for your pantry. I love serving this jelly on a cheese board with sharp cheddar or spreading it on warm scones for a simple dessert.

It also makes a fantastic glaze for roasted chicken or pork. For storage, keep the sealed jars in a cool dark place.

Once opened, just pop it in the fridge. It is a simple, versatile preserve that works for breakfast, snacks, or dinner, and it always brings a taste of summer to the table.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Green Tomato Jelly

1. What is the origin of green tomato jelly?

Green tomato jelly has its roots in traditional Southern cuisine, where it was often made as a way to preserve summer crops. The exact origin is unclear, but it’s believed to have been popularized during the Great Depression as a way to stretch limited resources.

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