Green Tomato Canning Recipe A Guide

Green Tomato Canning Recipe: Dive into the surprisingly delightful world of preserving nature’s bounty! From their humble beginnings as unripe orbs, green tomatoes transform into culinary treasures through the magic of canning. We’ll explore the rich history of this time-honored tradition, uncovering the nutritional perks these often-overlooked fruits possess—yes, they’re fruits!—compared to their fully ripened cousins. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and embark on a journey filled with flavorful recipes, step-by-step instructions, and a dash of canning wisdom that’ll have you preserving like a pro in no time.

Think of it as a culinary adventure, a delicious preservation project, and a celebration of resourceful cooking all rolled into one. Prepare for a taste of history, a burst of flavor, and a whole lot of satisfaction!

This guide provides everything you need to successfully can green tomatoes, from selecting the perfect specimens to troubleshooting common canning challenges. We’ll cover three delicious variations: fried green tomatoes, green tomato relish, and pickled green tomatoes, each with its unique flavor profile and texture. We’ll also delve into the crucial aspects of water bath canning, ensuring safe and delicious results every time.

Let’s get started on this exciting culinary journey!

Introduction to Green Tomato Canning: Green Tomato Canning Recipe

Green Tomato Canning Recipe A Guide

The art of preserving green tomatoes—a practice stretching back generations—is a delightful blend of culinary ingenuity and resourcefulness. Long before refrigeration became commonplace, preserving the bounty of the summer harvest, including those underripe green beauties, was essential for sustenance throughout the year. This tradition, rich with history and steeped in practicality, continues to thrive, offering a unique pathway to enjoying the vibrant flavors of the garden, even long after the first frost.Green tomato canning offers a plethora of advantages, extending far beyond simple preservation.

Imagine the satisfaction of savoring the tangy zest of your own homemade green tomato relish months after the summer sun has faded, a taste of summer’s abundance lingering warmly on your palate. It’s a cost-effective way to use up excess produce, reducing food waste and bolstering your pantry with delicious homemade goods. The process itself is a rewarding experience, connecting you to a legacy of food preservation and fostering a deeper appreciation for the seasonal rhythm of nature’s bounty.

Nutritional Value of Green Tomatoes

Green tomatoes, often overlooked in favor of their red counterparts, possess a unique nutritional profile. While ripe tomatoes are lauded for their lycopene content, a powerful antioxidant, green tomatoes boast higher levels of other beneficial compounds. They contain more chlorogenic acid, a potent antioxidant linked to various health benefits including potential anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Furthermore, green tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, important for immune function, and contain a variety of other vitamins and minerals.

Studies suggest that the overall antioxidant capacity of green tomatoes might even rival that of ripe tomatoes, though the specific nutritional composition can vary depending on the variety and growing conditions. Consider this: a single serving of green tomatoes offers a significant boost to your daily intake of essential nutrients, making them a valuable addition to any healthy diet.

Selecting and Preparing Green Tomatoes

Embarking on your green tomato canning journey requires a discerning eye and a gentle touch. The success of your final product hinges on selecting the right tomatoes and preparing them with care. Think of it as a culinary courtship – you want to choose the perfect specimens and treat them with the respect they deserve!Choosing the right green tomatoes is paramount.

Green tomato canning? It’s a delightful adventure! Think of the vibrant pickles, the zesty relish – pure culinary magic. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not branch out? Check out these fantastic canning recipes for green peppers for some seriously spicy inspiration. Then, armed with newfound pepper-preserving prowess, you’ll be back to those glorious green tomatoes, ready to conquer the canning world, one jar at a time.

It’s a journey of flavour, friends!

We’re not talking about those rock-hard, barely-green specimens; instead, we’re after tomatoes that have reached a certain stage of maturity. Ideally, you’ll be looking for firm, plump tomatoes with a vibrant, slightly yellowish-green hue. Avoid tomatoes that are overly soft, bruised, or show signs of blemishes beyond minor imperfections. Remember, these are the building blocks of your delicious canned treasure.

Tomato Selection Criteria

The ideal green tomato for canning possesses a firm texture, indicating ripeness at the right stage. The color should be a consistent, bright green, suggesting the tomato has developed sufficient size and structure. Avoid tomatoes that are pale, overly soft, or show signs of disease or insect damage. Think of it like choosing the finest jewels for your canning crown.

Washing, Sorting, and Inspecting Green Tomatoes

Before you even think about touching a knife, the tomatoes need a good scrub. Wash your tomatoes thoroughly under cool, running water. Imagine giving each tomato a refreshing spa treatment. This removes any dirt or debris that might have accumulated during their growth. Following the wash, carefully sort the tomatoes by size and condition.

Set aside any tomatoes that are damaged beyond repair. Inspect each tomato individually for any blemishes, cuts, or signs of disease. Discard any questionable tomatoes. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Preparing Green Tomatoes for Canning: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now for the crucial preparation stage. This process is straightforward, yet requires precision. First, remove the stem of each tomato using a sharp knife. A clean cut is essential; jagged edges can lead to uneven processing. Next, carefully inspect the tomatoes once more.

If you notice any blemishes, gently cut them away with a sharp paring knife, ensuring you remove all affected areas. Remember, a little extra care now saves potential heartache later. Finally, depending on your recipe, you might choose to slice or chop the tomatoes. Uniformity in size is key for even cooking and canning. Think of this as your pre-canning culinary ballet – precise and graceful.

Green Tomato Canning Recipes

Green tomato canning recipe

Ah, the humble green tomato – often overlooked, yet brimming with potential! We’ve already explored selecting and preparing these verdant jewels, and now it’s time to unlock their canning capabilities. Get ready to transform a bounty of green tomatoes into culinary treasures that will brighten your winter days. This isn’t just about preserving food; it’s about preserving a piece of summer’s sunshine.

Got a glut of green tomatoes? Don’t despair! While a classic green tomato canning recipe is a fantastic option, sometimes you crave a bit more zing. If that’s you, check out this surprisingly delightful spicy tomato jam canning recipe ; it’s a real taste adventure! The unexpected sweetness and fiery kick make it a perfect partner to your usual green tomato preserves – offering a delicious contrast.

So, embrace the unexpected and expand your canning horizons!

Fried Green Tomatoes

Let’s start with a classic – fried green tomatoes. This recipe offers a delightful balance of crispy exterior and juicy interior, capturing the unique tang of the green tomato. The canned version provides a convenient way to enjoy this Southern comfort food year-round.

Ingredients Instructions Notes
Green tomatoes, sliced 1/4 inch thick Dip tomato slices in seasoned cornmeal mixture. Use ripe but firm green tomatoes for best results.
Cornmeal Fry in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. Adjust frying time depending on thickness of slices.
Flour Drain on paper towels. Can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Salt Pack into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. For canning, follow standard water bath canning procedures.
Black pepper Process in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes (adjust based on altitude). Enjoy the convenience of home-canned fried green tomatoes!
Garlic powder Cool completely before checking seals. A perfect addition to sandwiches, salads, or as a standalone snack.
Onion powder Store in a cool, dark place. A taste of summer, perfectly preserved.
Vegetable oil

Green Tomato Relish

This vibrant relish is a delightful explosion of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. Perfect as a condiment for burgers, hot dogs, or even as a unique addition to your Thanksgiving table, this relish is a testament to the versatility of the green tomato. It’s a flavor journey that will surprise and delight your taste buds.

Ingredients Instructions Notes
Green tomatoes, chopped Combine all ingredients in a large saucepan. Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to your preference.
Onions, chopped Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until tomatoes are softened. For a smoother relish, you can puree it after cooking.
Green bell peppers, chopped Process in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes (adjust based on altitude). A fantastic addition to sandwiches, hot dogs, or as a side dish.
Sugar Pack into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. This relish can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Vinegar Cool completely before checking seals. A taste of summer, perfectly preserved.
Salt
Celery seeds
Mustard seeds

Pickled Green Tomatoes

These tangy pickled green tomatoes offer a refreshing crunch and a delightful sourness. The pickling process transforms the green tomato into a completely new culinary experience, offering a vibrant and zesty flavor profile. This is a testament to the power of preservation and the surprising adaptability of the green tomato.

Ingredients Instructions Notes
Green tomatoes, sliced Combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and spices in a saucepan. Use firm, but not overripe, green tomatoes.
White vinegar Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Adjust the amount of sugar and spices to your preference.
Water Pack the sliced tomatoes into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. For a crispier pickle, add a few peppercorns or mustard seeds.
Sugar Pour the hot brine over the tomatoes, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjust based on altitude).
Salt Remove jars and let cool completely. Store in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Garlic cloves, smashed
Dill sprigs
Black peppercorns

The flavor profiles and textures of these three canned green tomato products are vastly different. The fried green tomatoes offer a crispy exterior and a juicy, slightly tart interior. The relish provides a sweet, tangy, and spicy experience with a soft texture. Finally, the pickled green tomatoes deliver a crisp, tangy, and slightly sour flavor. Each method showcases a unique aspect of the green tomato’s potential.

Green tomato canning, a delightful culinary adventure! This year, I’m experimenting with adding a vibrant twist; for a truly unforgettable flavor profile, consider incorporating a tangy sweetness. Check out this amazing sweet onion relish recipe – it’s a game-changer! The sweetness perfectly complements the tartness of the green tomatoes, creating a sensational canned treat that will brighten even the dreariest winter day.

So grab those green tomatoes and let’s get canning!

Each jar holds not just food, but a memory of summer’s abundance.

Canning Methods and Procedures

Embarking on the journey of preserving your harvest is a rewarding experience, a testament to the bounty of nature and your own resourcefulness. Water bath canning, a time-honored method, is particularly well-suited for green tomatoes, ensuring their vibrant flavor is locked in for months to come. It’s a process that combines simplicity with a crucial element: safety. Let’s delve into the specifics, ensuring a successful and safe canning adventure.Water bath canning, in its essence, involves submerging sealed jars in boiling water to create a vacuum seal, preventing spoilage.

This gentle yet effective method is perfect for high-acid foods like pickled green tomatoes, safeguarding against harmful bacteria. The key to success lies in meticulous preparation and adherence to established safety guidelines. Ignoring these steps could compromise the safety of your preserved goods, so careful attention to detail is paramount.

Water Bath Canning Equipment

Gathering the right tools is half the battle. Imagine your kitchen as a canning laboratory, and these are your essential instruments. You’ll need a large stockpot or canner, deep enough to fully submerge jars with at least an inch of water above them. A canning rack is incredibly helpful, preventing direct contact between jars and the pot’s bottom. Jar lifter tongs, essential for handling hot jars safely, are your trusted assistants.

A wide-mouth funnel simplifies the filling process, while a bubble remover helps eliminate trapped air, crucial for a successful seal. Finally, you’ll need lids and bands, specifically designed for canning, ensuring a hermetic seal. Preparing all your equipment in advance will streamline the process and minimize stress.

Step-by-Step Water Bath Canning Process

Let’s transform those vibrant green tomatoes into delicious, shelf-stable delights. First, thoroughly clean your jars and lids in hot, soapy water. Then, prepare your chosen green tomato recipe, ensuring it’s cooked to the appropriate temperature and consistency. Carefully fill the sterilized jars, leaving the recommended headspace (usually about ½ inch). Remove any air bubbles using a bubble remover or a clean, non-metallic utensil.

Wipe the jar rims clean, ensuring no residue interferes with the seal. Place the lids and bands securely onto the jars, tightening them fingertip tight – avoid over-tightening. Now, carefully place the jars onto the canning rack in your canner. Add enough water to cover the jars by at least an inch. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then process according to your recipe’s instructions – this usually ranges from 10 to 45 minutes, depending on the specific recipe and altitude.

Once the processing time is complete, carefully remove the jars using the jar lifter and let them cool completely on a towel-lined surface, undisturbed. Listen for the satisfying “pop” sound as the jars seal – a delightful auditory confirmation of your canning success! Finally, check the seals by gently pressing down on the center of each lid.

Any lid that doesn’t pop back is unsealed and should be refrigerated and consumed promptly. Your pantry awaits its newest additions!

Troubleshooting and Common Issues

Canning green tomatoes, while rewarding, can present a few hurdles. Understanding these potential pitfalls and how to avoid them is key to enjoying safe and delicious results. Think of it as a friendly game of culinary chess – anticipating your opponent’s moves (in this case, spoilage) is half the battle. Let’s arm ourselves with the knowledge to win this delicious game.Improper sealing and spoilage are the most common challenges faced by home canners.

These issues, while potentially disheartening, are usually preventable with careful attention to detail and adherence to established safety guidelines. Remember, we’re not just preserving tomatoes; we’re preserving memories and ensuring the safety of our families and friends.

Improper Jar Sealing

A properly sealed jar will have a concave lid, indicating a successful vacuum seal. If the lid is flat or bulges upwards, the seal has failed, rendering the contents unsafe for consumption. This often happens due to insufficient headspace, inadequate processing time, or using damaged jars or lids. A failed seal might indicate air pockets remained trapped within the jar, creating a breeding ground for bacteria.

To prevent this, ensure the correct headspace is maintained, follow the recommended processing time precisely, and always inspect jars and lids for any cracks or damage before use. A visual check is your first line of defense!

Spoilage and Signs of Contamination

Spoilage manifests in several ways. Mold growth, often appearing as fuzzy patches on the surface, is a clear sign of contamination. A sour smell or off-flavor, or unusual bubbling after opening a jar, are further indicators. These are signs that the canning process failed to eliminate harmful bacteria or that the seal was compromised, allowing for microbial growth.

The key here is vigilance. Regularly inspect your canned goods for any abnormalities. If in doubt, discard the contents. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when dealing with preserved foods. Your health is priceless.

Preventing Spoilage and Ensuring Food Safety

Maintaining cleanliness throughout the canning process is paramount. Sterilize jars and lids properly, ensuring they are free from any residue or debris. Work in a clean environment, minimizing the chance of introducing contaminants. Following tested recipes and processing times precisely is critical. Under-processing leaves the tomatoes vulnerable to spoilage, while over-processing can affect texture and flavor.

Finally, remember the importance of proper storage. Store your canned goods in a cool, dark, and dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat. These precautions will significantly reduce the risk of spoilage and ensure your canned green tomatoes remain safe and delicious for months to come. It’s a testament to your dedication to preserving both flavor and safety.

Addressing Specific Spoilage Scenarios

Let’s say you open a jar and notice a slightly off odor. Don’t take chances. Even a subtle change can indicate a problem. Discard the contents immediately. Similarly, if you notice bulging lids, even slightly, it’s a warning sign.

These jars should never be consumed. Remember, a single instance of foodborne illness can have lasting consequences. Your safety, and the safety of your loved ones, is worth the effort of meticulous attention to detail. It’s an investment in well-being, a delicious and safe investment.

Storage and Shelf Life

So, you’ve successfully canned your green tomatoes – a triumph worthy of a celebratory pickle! Now, the crucial question: how do we keep these vibrant, tangy treasures at their peak for as long as possible? Proper storage is key to ensuring your hard work doesn’t go to waste, transforming your jars of green goodness into a culinary time capsule. Let’s dive into the details of preserving your perfectly preserved produce.Proper storage of canned green tomatoes is straightforward but vital for maintaining quality and preventing spoilage.

Think of it as giving your culinary creations a safe haven, protecting them from the perils of temperature fluctuations and unwelcome microbial guests. Imagine the disappointment of opening a jar only to find its contents compromised – a scenario we’re diligently aiming to avoid. Storing your canned goods correctly is an act of culinary preservation, extending the shelf life and ensuring enjoyment for months to come.

Green tomato canning? It’s a surprisingly rewarding project, transforming those slightly tart beauties into delicious pantry staples. Think of the satisfying crunch in a winter stew, alongside hearty, homemade beans – check out this fantastic recipe for how to make homemade pork and beans for a perfect pairing. Speaking of pairings, the sweet and tangy canned green tomatoes are an absolute revelation with those savory beans; you’ll be amazed at how well they complement each other.

Seriously, get canning!

Optimal Storage Conditions

Canned green tomatoes, once processed correctly, should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place. A pantry or basement is ideal; avoid areas with extreme temperature fluctuations or direct sunlight. Consistent temperatures are crucial; sudden shifts can compromise the seal and potentially lead to spoilage. Think of it like this: your canned tomatoes are enjoying a long, restful sleep – a cool, dark room is their ideal slumber party location.

Avoid storing them near heat sources, such as ovens or radiators, as the increased temperature could lead to premature deterioration. Consistent temperatures are your allies in this preservation endeavor.

Expected Shelf Life

Under ideal storage conditions, properly canned green tomatoes should have a shelf life of 12 to 18 months. This timeframe provides a generous window for enjoying your homemade bounty. However, it’s important to remember that this is an estimate, and the actual shelf life can vary depending on factors such as the quality of ingredients, the canning process, and the storage environment.

For example, a jar stored in a consistently cool environment might last closer to the 18-month mark, while one exposed to fluctuating temperatures might show signs of degradation sooner. Always prioritize safety over extending shelf life; if you have any doubts, it’s best to err on the side of caution.

Identifying Spoilage

Before diving into those delicious green tomatoes, take a moment to visually inspect each jar. Look for signs of spoilage, such as bulging lids, leakage, mold, or unusual discoloration. A bulging lid is a clear indication of potential spoilage, caused by the build-up of gases produced by bacteria. Leakage suggests a compromised seal, allowing unwanted microorganisms access to your precious contents.

Mold, of course, is a definite no-go, while any unusual discoloration or off-putting odor should raise a red flag. When in doubt, throw it out! It’s always better to err on the side of caution, protecting your health and ensuring a safe culinary experience. Trust your senses; if something seems amiss, it’s best to discard the jar rather than risk potential illness.

Green tomato canning, a delightful culinary adventure! It’s all about embracing the unexpected tartness. Want to branch out? Check out this fantastic guide on how to can peppers and wieners for some seriously spicy inspiration. Then, armed with newfound canning prowess, you’ll be ready to tackle those green tomatoes with confidence, transforming them into a tangy, unforgettable treat.

It’s a journey of flavor, one jar at a time!

Serving Suggestions and Culinary Applications

Let’s face it, a pantry stocked with jars of vibrant green tomatoes is a culinary adventure waiting to happen. These aren’t just emergency rations; they’re a gateway to a world of flavour, ready to transform your everyday meals into something truly special. The delightful tang and unique texture of canned green tomatoes offer a surprising versatility that extends far beyond the expected.Think of canned green tomatoes as a secret weapon in your kitchen arsenal, ready to elevate your dishes from ordinary to extraordinary.

Their bright, slightly acidic flavour profile complements a wide array of tastes and textures, making them incredibly adaptable to both sweet and savoury applications. From classic Southern comfort food to innovative modern cuisine, the possibilities are as endless as your imagination.

Green Tomato Chutney and Relishes

Canned green tomatoes are the perfect foundation for vibrant chutneys and relishes. The canning process mellows their tartness, creating a base that’s both tangy and sweet. Imagine a chunky chutney, bursting with the sweetness of onions and peppers, the warmth of ginger and garlic, and the delightful zing of canned green tomatoes. This chutney would be a sensational accompaniment to grilled meats, cheeses, or even as a topping for your morning eggs.

A simpler relish, featuring finely diced canned green tomatoes, red onion, and a touch of fresh dill, would be a fantastic addition to sandwiches or burgers. The possibilities are truly endless; experiment with different spices and herbs to create your signature relish.

Savory Dishes Featuring Canned Green Tomatoes

The slightly acidic nature of canned green tomatoes makes them a surprisingly effective ingredient in savory dishes. Imagine a hearty green tomato and cornbread casserole, where the canned tomatoes provide a delightful counterpoint to the sweetness of the corn and the richness of the cheese. Or picture a vibrant green tomato salsa, a fresh and zesty addition to your favourite tacos or grilled fish.

The possibilities are truly boundless. Adding them to stews, soups, and even fried rice can add a unique depth of flavour and texture. Consider a rich tomato-based soup where the canned green tomatoes add a unique twist to the classic flavor profile. Their firm texture holds up well in cooking, making them ideal for dishes that require a bit more body.

A Green Tomato-Centric Menu

To truly showcase the versatility of canned green tomatoes, let’s craft a menu that highlights their unique qualities in a variety of dishes. We’ll start with a refreshing Green Tomato and Watermelon Salad, a surprisingly delightful combination of sweet and tart. The main course will feature a Green Tomato and Black Bean Burrito Bowl, with the canned tomatoes adding a zingy counterpoint to the earthy beans and rice.

For dessert, we’ll indulge in a Green Tomato Pie, a Southern classic with a surprising sweetness that comes from the baked tomatoes themselves. This menu is not only delicious, but it’s a testament to the versatility of this often-underappreciated ingredient. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavour and resourcefulness, a testament to transforming something simple into something truly extraordinary.

It’s a culinary adventure you won’t soon forget.

Visual Guide

Preserving the vibrant flavors of summer’s bounty into the crisp autumn months requires a keen eye, not just for selecting the perfect green tomatoes, but also for recognizing the telltale signs of a successful—or unsuccessful—canning endeavor. Let’s embark on a visual journey, exploring the delightful aesthetics of perfectly canned green tomatoes and the less-than-appealing sights of those that haven’t fared so well.Properly canned green tomatoes, regardless of the recipe, share some key visual characteristics.

Think of them as culinary time capsules, preserving the essence of the fresh fruit.

Appearance of Properly Canned Green Tomatoes

Successfully canned green tomatoes, whether fried, pickled, or made into relish, exhibit a pleasing uniformity. Their color will be consistent, a vibrant shade reflecting the variety used. For instance, a deep green tomato will retain that rich hue, perhaps slightly softened but not faded or discolored. The texture should be firm, yet yielding to gentle pressure; they won’t be rock-hard or mushy.

The consistency will be relatively uniform throughout the jar, with no pockets of liquid separation or excessive air bubbles. The liquid surrounding them should be clear or slightly cloudy, depending on the recipe, but never murky or discolored. Imagine a perfectly preserved miniature world, each jar a testament to your canning prowess.

Appearance of Spoiled or Improperly Canned Green Tomatoes

Sadly, not every canning adventure ends in culinary triumph. Spoiled or improperly canned green tomatoes present a stark contrast to their perfectly preserved counterparts. The first warning sign is often a change in color; fading, browning, or the appearance of unusual spots or discoloration are all red flags. The texture will be significantly altered, likely becoming excessively soft, mushy, or even slimy.

The consistency might be uneven, with some tomatoes overly soft while others remain firm. The liquid in the jar may be cloudy, murky, or even exhibit a foul odor, a clear indication of spoilage. A bulging lid is a critical warning sign, indicating dangerous pressure buildup within the jar due to bacterial growth. Discard any jars exhibiting these signs without hesitation.

Your safety is paramount.

Visual Differences Between Canned Green Tomato Recipes, Green tomato canning recipe

The visual appeal of canned green tomatoes varies significantly depending on the recipe. Let’s contrast the three we’ve discussed: fried green tomatoes, relish, and pickles.Fried green tomatoes, even when canned, retain a hint of their fried texture. They might appear slightly darker in color, and the consistency is noticeably different from fresh tomatoes, having a slightly denser, more compact feel.

The surrounding liquid, if any, would be minimal and likely contain traces of oil or other frying agents.Green tomato relish showcases a completely different visual character. It’s a vibrant mix of finely chopped green tomatoes, often combined with other vegetables and spices. The color is typically a heterogeneous blend of greens, reds, and yellows from the various ingredients, reflecting the lively, zesty nature of the relish.

The consistency is smooth, almost paste-like, with no individual tomato pieces readily discernible.Finally, canned green tomato pickles present a distinct visual identity. The tomatoes themselves are typically whole or sliced, submerged in a clear or slightly amber-colored brine. Their color remains a relatively consistent green, but the brine adds a shimmering, translucent quality. The texture is firm and crisp, reflective of the pickling process, and the tomatoes maintain their shape remarkably well.

Each jar is a visual symphony of texture and color.

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