Tomato Relish

Tomato Relish Recipe from Fiji with Curry and Mustard

Region / culture: Fiji | Servings: 12 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Tomato relish is a tangy and flavorful condiment that can be used to enhance the taste of a variety of dishes. It is a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

History

Tomato relish has been a popular condiment for many years, with variations of the recipe found in different cultures around the world. It is believed to have originated in the United States, where tomatoes are a staple ingredient in many dishes.

Ingredients

12 large tomatoes, peeled
4 large onions
salt, to taste
3 chillies
vinegar
2 tbsp flour
1 tbsp curry powder
1 tbsp mustard

How to prepare

Cut the tomatoes and onions into 4 or more pieces. Sprinkle them with salt and let them sit overnight.
The next day, drain the liquid and transfer the tomato and onion mixture into a pot. Add sugar and chillies.
Pour enough vinegar to cover the mixture and bring it to a boil.
Simmer for 30 minutes.
In a separate bowl, mix flour, curry powder, and mustard to a smooth paste using a little cold vinegar.
Add the paste to the tomato mixture and boil for 5 minutes.
Pour the mixture into sterilized jars and seal them tightly.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos for extra flavor and heat.
Use honey or brown sugar instead of white sugar for a different sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to peel the tomatoes before using them in the recipe to ensure a smooth texture.

- Adjust the amount of chillies used in the recipe to suit your spice tolerance.

- Be sure to sterilize the jars before filling them with the relish to ensure a longer shelf life.

Serving Suggestions

Tomato relish can be served as a topping for burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, or grilled meats. It can also be used as a dip for chips or crackers.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for making tomato relish include simmering, boiling, and sterilizing jars for preservation.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile. You can also use different types of onions for a variation in taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Tomato relish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a month. Be sure to seal the jars tightly to maintain freshness.

Presentation Ideas

Serve tomato relish in small jars or bowls with a spoon for easy serving. You can also garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Tomato relish pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, cheese platters, and charcuterie boards. It can also be used as a topping for tacos or nachos.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store tomato relish in a cool, dark place for up to a month. Once opened, store in the refrigerator and consume within a week. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of tomato relish contains approximately 50 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of tomato relish contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of tomato relish contains approximately 1 gram of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of tomato relish contains approximately 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Tomato relish is a good source of vitamin C and potassium.

Alergens

Tomato relish may contain allergens such as mustard and flour. Be sure to check the ingredient list for any potential allergens.

Summary

Tomato relish is a low-calorie condiment that is rich in vitamin C and potassium. It is a healthy addition to your meals.

Summary

Tomato relish is a delicious and versatile condiment that can elevate the flavor of your favorite dishes. With a balance of tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors, it is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small town in the countryside. I had always loved spending time in the kitchen with my mother, watching her cook up delicious meals for our family. One day, while rummaging through an old recipe box that had been passed down from my grandmother, I stumbled upon a faded, yellowed piece of paper with the words "Tomato Relish" scrawled across it in elegant handwriting.

Curious, I asked my mother about the recipe, and she told me that it had been given to her by a dear friend many years ago. She explained that it was a family recipe that had been passed down through the generations, and that it was a favorite at gatherings and potlucks. Eager to try my hand at making it, I asked my mother to teach me the ins and outs of creating this delectable dish.

The first step was to gather the fresh ingredients needed for the relish. Tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and celery were all washed and chopped with care, their vibrant colors creating a beautiful mosaic on the cutting board. As I worked, I breathed in the earthy scent of the vegetables, feeling a sense of satisfaction at the thought of transforming them into something delicious.

Next came the cooking process. The vegetables were simmered in a pot with vinegar, sugar, and a medley of spices, creating a tantalizing aroma that wafted through the kitchen. I stirred the mixture gently, watching as the vegetables softened and melded together, their flavors marrying to create a harmonious blend of sweet and savory.

As the relish cooked, my mother regaled me with stories of her own experiences making the dish. She told me about the time she had brought it to a church picnic and received rave reviews from everyone who tasted it. She spoke of the joy she felt when she saw the delight on people's faces as they savored each spoonful, their taste buds tingling with the perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness.

Finally, after hours of patient simmering, the relish was ready. I carefully ladled it into glass jars, the vibrant red color of the tomatoes shining like rubies in the sunlight. I sealed the jars tightly, the lids making a satisfying pop as they cooled, signaling that the relish was now preserved and ready to be enjoyed.

I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of my labor. I spread a dollop of the relish onto a slice of crusty bread, the tangy flavor exploding on my tongue in a burst of deliciousness. The combination of sweet tomatoes, crunchy vegetables, and aromatic spices was a revelation, a taste sensation that I knew I would be making again and again.

Over the years, I have continued to make this tomato relish, sharing it with friends and family at countless gatherings and celebrations. Each time I prepare it, I am transported back to that moment in my childhood kitchen, when I first discovered the magic of this recipe and the joy of creating something truly special with my own two hands.

As I look back on that day with fondness, I am grateful for the legacy of recipes that has been passed down to me from generations past. Each one tells a story, a tale of love and tradition that lives on in the dishes I create. And as I continue to cook and bake and experiment in the kitchen, I know that I am honoring those who came before me, preserving their memories in every bite of food that I share with others.

So if you ever find yourself in need of a delicious and versatile condiment, look no further than my beloved tomato relish. It may have humble origins, but its flavor is anything but ordinary. Just one taste, and you'll understand why this recipe holds a special place in my heart – and why I will continue to make it for years to come.