This chow chow recipe is a classic Southern relish made from a combination of cabbage, onions, bell peppers, and spices. It’s tangy, sweet, and perfect for serving with sandwiches, hot dogs, or grilled meats. Chow chow is a great way to preserve the flavors of fresh vegetables, and it adds a burst of flavor to any dish. Whether you’re looking for a new topping for your BBQ or a flavorful condiment to have on hand, this chow chow recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
Ingredients for the chow chow recipe:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, finely chopped
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 2 bell peppers (green or red), chopped
- 4 large tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 tbsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp celery seeds
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp salt
Execution
Step-by-Step Method for the chow chow recipe:
- Prepare the vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the chopped cabbage, onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
- Make the pickling liquid: In a large pot, combine the vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, ground cloves, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
- Add the vegetables: Once the pickling liquid is boiling, add the chopped vegetables to the pot. Reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
- Pack and store: Ladle the hot chow chow into sterilized jars, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace. Seal the jars and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing.
- Cool and store: Let the jars cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening.
Tips:
For the best chow chow recipe:
- Use fresh vegetables: Freshly harvested cabbage, peppers, and tomatoes will give your chow chow the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the sweetness: You can adjust the amount of sugar to make your chow chow sweeter or more tangy, depending on your taste preference.
- Serve with: Chow chow is perfect as a topping for hot dogs, burgers, and sandwiches, or as a side dish for BBQ meats.
- Store for later: Properly sealed jars of chow chow can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Refrigerate after opening.
FAQs:
- What is chow chow used for? Chow chow is a versatile relish that can be used as a topping for hot dogs, sandwiches, burgers, or as a side with BBQ meats and grilled vegetables.
- Can I make chow chow without sugar? Yes, you can reduce or omit the sugar if you prefer a more tangy, savory relish. You can also use a sugar substitute for a sugar-free version.
- How long does chow chow last? Sealed jars of chow chow can last up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 2-3 weeks.
- Can I add other vegetables to chow chow? Yes, you can customize your chow chow by adding carrots, green beans, or even hot peppers for extra spice.
