Chow Chow

Chow chow is a beloved Southern condiment that adds a delightful tang to any dish. This vibrant relish combines fresh vegetables with a sweet and tangy brine, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether served alongside grilled meats, as a topping for sandwiches, or stirred into salads, chow chow is sure to impress with its bold flavors and colorful presentation. Let’s dive into making this delicious dish!

Ingredients

• 2 cups green tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
• 1 cup onions, diced
• 1 cup carrots, grated
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 cup distilled vinegar
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Per serving of chow chow (about 1/2 cup):
– Calories: 90
– Total Fat: 0g
– Sodium: 300mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 23g
– Dietary Fiber: 2g
– Sugars: 14g
This nutritional information is for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Begin by washing and dicing all vegetables into small, uniform pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, carrots, and cauliflower.
3. In a separate pot, bring vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, turmeric, and salt to a boil.
4. Once boiling, pour the vinegar mixture over the chopped vegetables.
5. Mix well to ensure all vegetables are coated with the brine.
6. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to absorb flavors.
7. Transfer the mixture to a large saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
8. Cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.
9. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
10. Store in sterilized jars and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can easily customize chow chow by substituting key ingredients. For instance, yellow squash can replace carrots, and jalapeños can be added for a spicy kick. Experiment with different vegetables to suit your taste.

Serving and Pairings

Chow chow is delicious served with grilled meats, as a topping for hot dogs or burgers, and mixed into salads. It also pairs well with cornbread or as an accompaniment to fried green tomatoes.

Storage and Reheating

Store chow chow in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. It can also be frozen for longer storage. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, but it’s often enjoyed cold.

Cooking Mistakes

• Not chopping vegetables uniformly can lead to uneven cooking.
• Skipping the resting time can result in less flavor.
• Using low-quality vinegar can affect the taste.
• Overcooking can make vegetables mushy.
• Not sterilizing jars can lead to spoilage.
• Ignoring salt can make the relish bland.

Helpful Tips

• Adjust the sugar based on your sweetness preference.
• Experiment with different spices for unique flavor profiles.
• Use fresh, high-quality vegetables for the best results.
• Allow chow chow to sit for a few days for flavors to meld.
• Label jars with the date for tracking freshness.

FAQs

What is chow chow used for?

Chow chow is a versatile relish that can be used as a condiment for meats, sandwiches, or salads. Its tangy flavor enhances a variety of dishes, making it a popular choice in Southern cuisine.

Can I make chow chow spicy?

Yes, you can add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the recipe to give chow chow a spicy kick. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

How long does chow chow last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, chow chow can last up to two weeks. If frozen, it can last for several months.

Can I use other vegetables in chow chow?

Absolutely! Chow chow is flexible, and you can substitute or add vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or even radishes for a unique twist.

Is chow chow gluten-free?

Yes, chow chow is naturally gluten-free as it is made from vegetables and vinegar without any gluten-containing ingredients.

Conclusion

Chow chow is a delightful and versatile relish that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. Its easy preparation and ability to customize with various vegetables make it a must-try. Enjoy this Southern classic as a condiment or side dish, and savor the vibrant tastes it brings to your table.

Chow Chow

Chow chow is a vibrant Southern relish that adds a delightful tang to any dish, perfect for enhancing grilled meats, sandwiches, and salads.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Condiment

Cuisine: Southern

Keyword: chow chow, Southern relish, condiment, pickled vegetables

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 90kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cups green tomatoes diced
• 1 cup bell peppers chopped
• 1 cup onions diced
• 1 cup carrots grated
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 cup distilled vinegar
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt to taste

Instructions

• Wash and dice all vegetables into small, uniform pieces.
• In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, carrots, and cauliflower.
• In a separate pot, bring vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, turmeric, and salt to a boil.
• Pour the boiling vinegar mixture over the chopped vegetables.
• Mix well to coat all vegetables with the brine.
• Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes.
• Transfer the mixture to a large saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
• Cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.
• Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
• Store in sterilized jars and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 90kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 1g | Fiber: 2g