Are Green Tomatoes Just Unripe Red Tomatoes?

When it comes to green tomatoes, you either love them or you don't — there's really no middle ground. One thing's for certain though: They're light, incredibly refreshing, and unbelievably versatile. In case you were unaware, green tomatoes are the secret for an unbeatable pie, whether savory or sweet. They are also perfect for pickling and can either be enjoyed as a tangy snack on their own or added to sandwiches and salads for a deliciously crispy crunch. And for the most flavorful fried green tomatoes ever, some bacon fat is all you need.

But recipes aside, the question most people have about green tomatoes is: Are they just unripened red tomatoes, or are they a variety that stays green even when fully ripe? The true answer lies somewhere in the middle — they can actually be both. There are two kinds of green tomatoes: the unripe red ones and heirloom varieties, which are basically old, open-pollinated cultivars (such as the Green Zebra, Moldovan Green, or Aunt Ruby's German Green) that have been passed down over generations and remain green even when fully mature. 

So, how do you tell them apart? Well, this is when you look at color and texture. Unripe red tomatoes tend to be firm to the touch, pale green, and noticeably acidic (sometimes even slightly astringent, too). In contrast, heirloom green tomatoes often have stripes or other subtle patterns on their skin. They also have a softer texture when ripe and boast a sweeter, slightly spicy flavor.

Unripe red tomatoes are not as juicy as fully rip ones, which makes them ideal for slicing. That's why they're not just exactly what you need for the best tomato sandwich of your life but also great for frying. They stay solid and don't fall apart in the pan once dredged into flour and cooked to a golden-brown perfection. Then, you can either enjoy them as a crispy snack on their own or turn them into a baked green tomato Parmesan. They also work wonders in casseroles, soups, stews, and even salsas.

On the other hand, naturally green tomatoes — like the Green Zebra — are fruity, rich-tasting, and wonderfully sweet. A little creativity is all it takes to transform them into a delicious green tomato Caprese. Simply pair them with soft and creamy buffalo mozzarella, finish them with some fresh basil leaves and a generous drizzle of olive oil, and you've got yourself a delicious summer snack. 

And for those with a sweet tooth — don't despair. Green tomatoes actually work great in desserts as well. This is because their natural tanginess, which closely resembles that of Granny Smith apples, pairs beautifully with the sugar used in baked goods. So, next time you're in the mood for something sweet, try turning them into a green tomato cake with velvety cream cheese frosting or swapping the apples in your pie recipe with some green tomatoes for an unexpectedly delicious twist.