Introduction

Today we’re chatting about chow chow recipe – and no, we’re not cooking up those adorable fluffy pups! (Though I bet they’d make great kitchen assistants with all that fur to sweep up spills.) Just kidding, I wouldn’t dare. We’re talking about the tangy, crunchy relish that’s been jazzing up Southern plates for generations.

You know how sometimes you look at your garden and think, “Oh no, what am I gonna do with all these tomatoes and peppers?” Well, chow chow is here to help! This is the ultimate problem-solver of the condiment world, swooping in to rescue those end-of-summer veggies from the compost bin. 

Or you might simply want to go to the store and get some veggies just to make this delicious and healthy relish so you have some good veggies ready to go on busy nights. Either way it’s worth making. 

And guess what? We’re giving this classic a little health-conscious twist. Instead of the usual white sugar, we’re using raw unrefined sugar. It’s a simple swap that adds a touch of natural sweetness without sacrificing any of that sweet-tangy goodness.

So grab your chopping board, and let’s get ready to transform those leftover veggies into a jar of pure Southern magic. Trust me, your taste buds (and your eco-conscious side) will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Chow Chow Recipe

This southern relish recipe is a flavor party in a jar. Picture crisp cabbage, tangy green tomatoes, and a colorful medley of peppers all mingling together in perfect harmony. The best part? It’s gluten-free and packed with summer produce goodness. So if you are not great at getting enough veggie in daily, this is your solution. 

A Brief History of Chow Chow

Ever wondered about this hard to forget name “chow chow”? Well, food historian John T. Edgerton suggests it might have roots in Chinese railroad workers’ cuisine. But don’t quote me on that—the jury’s still out! What we do know is that chow chow has been a Southern kitchen staple for ages, helping folks preserve their garden goodies.

Chow Chow Relish: A Southern Tradition

Chow chow relish is like pickles’ cool cousin. It’s tangy, a bit sweet, and adds a zesty kick to just about anything. Traditionally made with green tomatoes, cabbage, and peppers, this relish is chopped up and preserved in a vinegary brine.

A Versatile Condiment

This chow chow recipe isn’t just for hot dogs and burgers—though it shines on those too! Imagine spooning it over black-eyed peas or mixing it into potato salad for an unexpected twist. It’s all about elevating those everyday meals with a burst of flavor.

Chow Chow Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 cups green tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 cups cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 cup onions, finely chopped
• 1 cup bell peppers (any color), finely chopped
• 2 cups apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup raw unrefined sugar
• 2 tablespoons salt
• 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric (for color)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the chopped green tomatoes, shredded cabbage, chopped onions, and bell peppers. Sprinkle with salt and mix well. Cover and let it sit overnight to draw out moisture.
2. Rinse and Drain: The next day, rinse the vegetable mixture under cold water to remove excess salt. Drain thoroughly; no one likes a watery relish!
3. Cook the Mixture: In a large pot over medium heat, combine the vinegar, raw unrefined sugar, mustard seeds, turmeric, and black pepper. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
4. Add Vegetables: Add the drained vegetable mixture to the pot and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crunchy.
5. Jar It Up: Carefully ladle the hot chow chow into sterilized jars while it’s still warm. Seal tightly and let them cool at room temperature.
6. Store: Once cooled, store your chow chow in the refrigerator for up to several weeks or process in a water bath canner for longer shelf life.

Nutritional Benefits of Chow Chow

Green tomatoes are rich in lycopene—a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health. They also provide vitamin C, which supports your immune system. Cabbage is another superstar ingredient; it’s loaded with fiber for digestive health and contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation.

Onions bring their own health benefits too! They are known to support heart health and may even have cancer-fighting properties. Plus, bell peppers add vibrant color along with vitamins A and C—perfect for keeping your skin glowing!

Tips for the Perfect Chow Chow

To ensure your chow chow turns out perfectly every time, remember these tips: use firm green tomatoes for the best texture and don’t skip the salting step—it’s crucial for achieving that perfect crunch. Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste; whether you like it spicy or mild, make it yours!

Storing Your Chow Chow

This chow chow recipe keeps well in the fridge for several weeks. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even can it for longer storage—just imagine cracking open a jar of summer sunshine in the dead of winter!

So there you have it—a simple chow chow recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. It’s a fantastic way to use up those garden stragglers while adding some pep to your meals. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out. Happy chopping!