Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 delectable spicy green tomato recipes from India! Green tomatoes are a staple ingredient in many Indian kitchens, and when paired with bold spices, they create dishes that are both flavorful and fiery. From chutneys and curries to pickles and stews, we’ve got you covered with a wide range of mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of this humble vegetable.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, these spicy green tomato recipes will surely become your new go-to’s. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of Indian delights with 18 innovative and tantalizing recipes that will make your taste buds do the tango!
Green Tomato Chutney with Mustard Seeds
This tangy and flavorful chutney is a perfect condiment for Indian dishes, made by cooking green tomatoes with aromatic spices and mustard seeds. It’s an excellent way to use up unripe tomatoes and add a burst of flavor to your meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs green tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup mustard seeds
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter for 10 seconds.
3. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until onions are translucent.
4. Add diced green tomatoes, cumin, salt, and water. Mix well.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chutney thickens.
6. Remove from heat and let it cool before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spicy Green Tomato Curry with Coconut
This vibrant and aromatic curry is a flavorful twist on traditional tomato curries, featuring the tangy sweetness of green tomatoes and the creamy richness of coconut. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add cumin, curry powder, and red chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add diced green tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until the curry has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Tomato and Onion Sabzi
A flavorful Indian-inspired vegetable dish made with green tomatoes, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-5 green tomatoes, chopped
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 10 seconds.
3. Add chopped onions and cook until they start browning (5-6 minutes).
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add chopped green tomatoes, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well.
6. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the mixture is dry.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Green Tomato Pickle with Indian Spices
A tangy and flavorful condiment that’s perfect for accompanying spicy curries or as a side dish to pair with naan or rice. This pickle is made by cooking green tomatoes in a blend of aromatic spices, vinegar, and oil.
Ingredients:
– 4-5 green tomatoes, sliced into thin rounds
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons mustard seeds
– 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2-3 dried red chilies, crushed or 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced green tomatoes and salt. Let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the tomatoes to release their excess moisture.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and coriander seeds. Once they start to sizzle, add cumin, turmeric powder, and crushed red chilies (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add vinegar, salt, and the tomato mixture to the pan. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer the pickle for 15-20 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Tomato Dal with Turmeric and Cumin
This flavorful dal (lentil soup) is a perfect blend of Indian spices, green tomatoes, and creamy texture. It’s an excellent way to use up unripe or green tomatoes, and the addition of turmeric and cumin gives it a warm and comforting taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 2 medium green tomatoes, chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 inch ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1-2 green chilies, sliced for added heat
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the grated ginger, turmeric, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the chopped green tomatoes, soaked lentils, and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot with a dollop of yogurt and some naan bread, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Green Tomato Rasam with Tamarind
This traditional South Indian recipe is a perfect way to use up green tomatoes, combining their tanginess with the richness of tamarind. This flavorful rasam (soup) is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 4-5 green tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup tamarind paste
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin and coriander seeds; let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped green tomatoes, tamarind paste, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
4. Add water to the mixture and bring it to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Green Tomato Bharta with Roasted Garlic
This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted garlic with the tanginess of green tomatoes, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional bharta.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, peeled and separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the garlic cloves on a piece of aluminum foil and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of oil.
3. Fold the foil to create a packet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the garlic is soft and mashed.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
5. Add the diced green tomatoes and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and lightly browned.
6. Add the roasted garlic to the skillet and stir well to combine.
7. Season with cumin and salt to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Green Tomato and Potato Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the sweetness of green tomatoes with the earthiness of potatoes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green tomatoes, diced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Add the diced green tomatoes, sliced onion, and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add soy sauce or chili flakes for extra flavor.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Tomato Pachadi with Yogurt
This tangy and creamy condiment is a perfect accompaniment to many Indian dishes, especially dosas, idlis, and rice. The combination of green tomatoes, yogurt, and spices creates a unique flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups green tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin and mustard seeds; let them sizzle for a few seconds.
2. Add the chopped green tomatoes and sauté until they start to soften (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Blend the mixture with yogurt, red chili powder (if using), and salt until smooth.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Green Tomato Thepla with Whole Wheat
Transforming green tomatoes into a flavorful thepla is a genius move, especially when combined with whole wheat for an added nutritional boost. This recipe is perfect for using up those pesky green tomatoes and enjoying a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large green tomatoes, finely chopped
– 1 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– 3 tablespoons water
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chopped green tomatoes, whole wheat flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add ghee or oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Gradually add water to form a soft, pliable dough.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide into 6 equal portions and shape each into a ball.
6. Roll out each ball into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
7. Cook on a hot skillet or griddle over medium heat for 30-40 seconds on each side, until the thepla is golden brown and slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15 minutes
Green Tomato and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect way to use up green tomatoes that are past their prime, paired with nutritious lentils and aromatic spices. The result is a flavorful and filling meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups green tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup brown or red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in lentils, green tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves (if desired).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green Tomato Rice with Curry Leaves
This flavorful rice dish is a staple in many Indian households, perfect for accompanying spicy curries or as a side dish on its own. The addition of curry leaves adds a unique aroma and depth to the recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 large green tomato, diced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2-3 curry leaves
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the diced green tomato and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Drain the rice and add it to the saucepan with the vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine.
5. Add the curry leaves and salt to taste.
6. Cook the rice according to package instructions, stirring occasionally.
7. Cooking time: approximately 20-25 minutes.
Green Tomato and Peanut Chutney
This flavorful condiment combines the tanginess of green tomatoes with the richness of peanuts, perfect for accompanying Indian dishes or using as a sandwich spread.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups green tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup peanuts
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced green tomatoes and peanuts. Stir well.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Let cool before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Green Tomato Bajji with Chickpea Batter
This recipe combines the sweetness of green tomatoes with the nuttiness of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a crispy fritter. Perfect as an appetizer or snack!
Ingredients:
– 4-5 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup gram flour (chickpea flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork or potato masher.
2. Add gram flour, baking powder, and salt to the mashed chickpeas. Mix well.
3. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
4. Dip each green tomato slice into the batter, coating evenly.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the battered green tomatoes for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain fritters on paper towels. Serve warm with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Tomato and Moong Dal Khichdi
Khichdi, a popular Indian comfort food, gets a delightful twist with the addition of green tomatoes and moong dal. This recipe combines the sweetness of green tomatoes with the creamy texture of split green gram, creating a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split green gram (moong dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium-sized green tomato, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Ghee or oil, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the moong dal and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat a pressure cooker with 1 cup of water. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the soaked moong dal, chopped onion, and diced green tomato to the pressure cooker. Season with salt to taste.
4. Close the lid and cook on high heat until the whistle goes off. Let the pressure release naturally.
5. Serve hot, garnished with ghee or oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Tomato Stuffed Paratha
Transform the flavors of Indian cuisine with this twist on traditional parathas! Green tomatoes add a tangy and refreshing touch to these crispy, buttery flatbreads.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/2 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– Filling ingredients:
+ 2-3 green tomatoes, diced
+ 1 small onion, finely chopped
+ 1 clove garlic, minced
+ Salt to taste
+ Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Place 1/4 cup of filling in the center of each circle.
6. Fold and shape the paratha as desired (e.g., triangle or circular).
7. Cook on a preheated non-stick skillet or tava over medium heat for 30-40 seconds per side, until golden brown.
8. Brush with melted ghee or oil while still warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Tomato and Spinach Poriyal
This poriyal recipe is a delightful combination of green tomatoes, spinach, and aromatic spices. It’s an excellent way to use up unripe tomatoes and adds a burst of freshness to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped green tomatoes
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add garlic, mustard seeds, and cumin seeds. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add green tomatoes and cook until they start to soften.
5. Add fresh spinach leaves and stir well.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the spinach has wilted.
8. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Green Tomato and Fenugreek Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the tanginess of green tomatoes with the earthy flavor of fenugreek, creating a unique and delicious stir-fry that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups green tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fenugreek leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the green tomatoes and fenugreek leaves. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your kitchen with these 18 mouth-watering green tomato recipes from India! From classic chutneys and curries to innovative pickles, stews, and stir-fries, this collection has something for every taste bud. Discover the unique flavors of mustard seeds, coconut, turmeric, cumin, tamarind, and roasted garlic as you explore the world of green tomato cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire your culinary creativity and leave you craving more!