Tomato Relish Recipe
Introduction
Tomato relish is a vibrant and flavorful condiment that beautifully complements a variety of dishes. With a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes, this relish is not just an accompaniment; it’s a versatile ingredient that can elevate your culinary creations, whether served as a dip, a sandwich spread, or a topping for grilled meats and vegetables.
This recipe combines fresh tomatoes with aromatic onions and garlic, rounded out by the richness of red wine vinaigrette and the warmth of dried oregano. A touch of cane sugar adds sweetness, creating a delicious contrast to the acidity of the tomatoes. Whether you’re looking to add a burst of flavor to your meals or preserve the essence of summer tomatoes, this tomato relish is a must-try.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes – chopped | 2 cups |
| Onion – finely chopped | 1/2 |
| Red Wine Vinaigrette | 1/2 cup |
| Dried oregano | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic – minced | 2 cloves |
| Black pepper powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dijon Mustard | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Cane sugar | 3 tablespoons |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 to 3 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 80 |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 80mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Protein | 1g |
Instructions
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Heat the Oil: In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. This will create a base for your relish and help enhance the flavors of the other ingredients.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the hot oil. Sauté until the onions become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step adds a savory foundation to your relish.
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Add the Tomatoes: Incorporate the chopped tomatoes and red wine vinaigrette into the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the tomatoes are evenly distributed.
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Cook Until Softened: Lower the heat to medium-low and cook the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes. You want the tomatoes to soften and break down, resulting in a mushy consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Reduce the Liquid: Continue cooking until the excess liquid evaporates, stirring frequently. This step intensifies the flavor and thickens the relish.
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Season the Relish: Once the mixture has thickened, add the Dijon mustard, black pepper powder, dried oregano, cane sugar, and salt to taste. Mix well and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Cool and Store: Remove the pan from heat and let the tomato relish cool to room temperature. Transfer it to a glass container and store it in the refrigerator. The relish can be enjoyed immediately, but the flavors will deepen as it chills.
Serving Suggestions
Tomato relish can be served in various delightful ways:
- As a Dip: Serve it alongside tortilla chips or fresh vegetable sticks for a flavorful appetizer.
- On Sandwiches: Spread it generously on sandwiches or wraps for an added layer of flavor.
- With Grilled Dishes: Use it as a zesty topping for grilled meats, fish, or roasted vegetables.
- In Salads: Drizzle over salads for a tangy kick.
Conclusion
This homemade tomato relish is a celebration of fresh ingredients, simple cooking techniques, and the joy of enhancing your meals with bold flavors. Whether you enjoy it as a dip, a condiment, or an ingredient in your favorite dishes, it’s a fantastic way to bring a taste of summer into your kitchen year-round. Enjoy the fresh flavors and versatility of this delightful tomato relish!
