chow chow recipe
Chow Chow is a vibrant, tangy Southern relish that transforms any meal into a flavor-packed experience. It’s the perfect accompaniment to BBQ, hot dogs, beans, and even sandwiches, adding a burst of sweet, sour, and spicy goodness. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Southern cooking or just love exploring new tastes, this chow chow recipe will become a must-have in your kitchen. Packed with fresh vegetables and a blend of spices, this chow chow recipe is easy to follow and yields an irresistible relish that enhances almost any dish.
What is Chow Chow ?
Ingredients for Chow Chow
The ingredients for chow chow can vary, but here’s a list of the essentials for this chow chow recipe :
- Green tomatoes – 2 cups, diced
- Cabbage – 2 cups, shredded
- Onions – 1 cup, chopped
- Green bell pepper – 1, diced
- Red bell pepper – 1, diced
- Celery – 1 cup, chopped
- Vinegar – 2 cups (apple cider vinegar adds a nice depth of flavor)
- Sugar – 1 cup
- Salt – 2 tablespoons
- Mustard seeds – 1 tablespoon
- Turmeric – 1 teaspoon
- Celery seeds – 1 teaspoon
- Red pepper flakes – 1/2 teaspoon (optional, for added heat)
Each of these ingredients brings unique flavors and textures, creating the signature profile of chow chow relish that you’ll find in this chow chow recipe.
Choosing the Right Vegetables
While cabbage, onions, and green tomatoes are traditional staples, you can be flexible with the vegetables in your chow chow recipe. Here are some other options you can include or substitute :
- Carrots – for sweetness and a bit of crunch
- Cauliflower – adds a nice texture and a slight nutty flavor
- Zucchini – a great filler vegetable that absorbs the brine well
- Jalapeños – for a spicy kick, if you like heat in your chow chow
Experimenting with different vegetables can add a unique twist to your chow chow recipe, and using what’s in season is a fantastic way to get the best flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your own delicious chow chow recipe relish.
Prepare the Vegetables :
Start by washing and chopping all of your vegetables. Dice them into small, uniform pieces to ensure they blend well in the relish. Once chopped, transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
Salt the Vegetables :
Add 2 tablespoons of salt to the vegetables and mix thoroughly. This step helps to draw out excess moisture from the vegetables, enhancing their texture and flavor. Cover the bowl and let it sit for about 1 hour.
Rinse and Drain :
After an hour, rinse the vegetables under cold water to remove the excess salt, then drain them thoroughly. Removing the extra salt ensures your relish won’t be overly salty.
Make the Vinegar Brine :
In a large saucepan, combine the vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, turmeric, celery seeds, and red pepper flakes. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. This brine is what will give your chow chow recipe its characteristic tang and spice.
Add Vegetables to the Brine :
Add the drained vegetables to the saucepan with the brine. Stir well to combine, and bring the mixture back to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Pack the Chow Chow :
Once the vegetables are tender but still have a slight crunch, it’s time to pack the chow chow into sterilized jars. Use a ladle to fill each jar, making sure to leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
Seal and Process :
Wipe the rims of the jars, then place the lids on top and screw on the bands until they’re fingertip tight. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for about 10 minutes to ensure a proper seal, which helps preserve the chow chow for long-term storage.
Variations
Chow chow is highly adaptable, and there are many regional variations. Here are a few popular ones :
Sweet Chow Chow : Add extra sugar for a sweeter profile that pairs well with rich, smoky meats.
Spicy Chow Chow : Add more red pepper flakes, or use diced jalapeños to increase the heat.
Green Tomato Chow Chow : Focus on green tomatoes as the main ingredient, which is especially popular in Southern recipes.
Serving Suggestions for Chow Chow
Chow chow is a versatile condiment, and there are countless ways to enjoy it. Here are some ideas :
With BBQ : The tanginess of chow chow cuts through the richness of BBQ meats like pulled pork, ribs, and brisket.
On Hot Dogs and Burgers : Add a spoonful to your next hot dog or burger for a burst of flavor.
With Beans : A traditional pairing, chow chow complements the earthiness of pinto beans and other legumes.
On Sandwiches : Use it as a topping for sandwiches to add a fresh, tangy crunch.
With Eggs : Chow chow can be a unique addition to scrambled eggs or omelets, adding complexity and zest.
Storing Chow Chow
Proper storage is key to preserving the flavor and quality of your chow chow recipe. After the jars have cooled from the water bath, ensure the lids are sealed tightly. Store in a cool, dark place, and your chow chow can last up to a year. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator and use it within a month for the best taste.
FAQ
- What Is the Shelf Life of a Homemade Chow Chow Recipe ?
When properly canned and stored in a cool, dark place, this chow chow recipe can last up to a year unopened. Once opened, keep the chow chow in the refrigerator, and it should stay fresh for about a month. Proper sealing is essential for long-term storage.
- What Is the Shelf Life of a Homemade Chow Chow Recipe ?
When properly canned and stored in a cool, dark place, this chow chow recipe can last up to a year unopened. Once opened, keep the chow chow in the refrigerator, and it should stay fresh for about a month. Proper sealing is essential for long-term storage.
- Can I Make a Spicy Version of This Chow Chow Recipe ?
Absolutely! To make a spicy chow chow recipe, simply add more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. You can adjust the heat level according to your taste, and even try different peppers like serrano or habanero for extra kick.
- Can I Use Other Types of Vinegar in This Chow Chow Recipe ?
Yes, you can substitute the apple cider vinegar in this chow chow recipe with white vinegar for a sharper flavor, or even red wine vinegar for a richer, slightly different taste. However, be mindful that the vinegar you choose may slightly alter the overall flavor of the relish.
- Is It Possible to Make This Chow Chow Recipe Without Sugar ?
If you prefer a sugar-free chow chow recipe, you can reduce or omit the sugar entirely. Alternatively, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. Keep in mind, though, that sugar also helps balance the vinegar’s acidity, so reducing it may affect the flavor profile.
- Is It Possible to Make This Chow Chow Recipe Without Sugar ?
If you prefer a sugar-free chow chow recipe, you can reduce or omit the sugar entirely. Alternatively, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. Keep in mind, though, that sugar also helps balance the vinegar’s acidity, so reducing it may affect the flavor profile.
- What Are the Best Dishes to Pair with This Chow Chow Recipe ?
Chow chow is incredibly versatile and pairs well with BBQ meats like pulled pork and ribs, as well as classic Southern dishes like beans and cornbread. You can also add it to hot dogs, burgers, and even as a tangy topping on sandwiches.
- Can I Skip the Canning Process in This Chow Chow Recipe ?
If you plan to consume the chow chow within a few weeks, you can skip the water bath canning process and store the relish directly in the refrigerator. However, for longer storage, canning is recommended to ensure the chow chow recipe stays preserved.
- Can I Freeze Chow Chow ?
While it’s generally not recommended to freeze chow chow due to potential texture changes, you can try freezing a small portion to