Chow Chow Recipe (with Video)

Chow Chow Recipe: Chow Chow is a classic Southern relish known for its tangy, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy flavor. It’s a fantastic way to preserve vegetables and add an extra burst of flavor to many dishes. Whether you enjoy it as a condiment on burgers or as a topping for beans, Chow Chow offers a unique taste that elevates any meal.

This step-by-step guide will show you how to make Chow Chow from scratch, ensuring the perfect balance of crunch, sweetness, and tang.

Ingredients for Chow Chow

To make a flavorful Chow Chow, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Vegetables:

• 1 medium head of cabbage (shredded)
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 2 green bell peppers (diced)
• 2 red bell peppers (diced)
• 2 cups green tomatoes (chopped)
• 2 carrots (grated)

Seasonings and Spices:

• 2 cups white vinegar
• 1 ½ cups sugar (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
• 1 tablespoon celery seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Additional Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons pickling salt
• 1 cup water

These ingredients create a delicious balance of sweetness, tanginess, and mild heat.

Essential Equipment Needed

Before you start making Chow Chow, gather the necessary kitchen tools:

• Cutting board and sharp knife – For chopping the vegetables evenly.
• Large mixing bowl – To mix all ingredients properly.
• Large pot – For cooking the Chow Chow mixture.
• Wooden spoon – Helps in stirring without scratching the pot.
• Sterilized canning jars with lids – For proper storage.
• Canning funnel – Makes transferring Chow Chow into jars easier.
• Water bath canner (optional) – If you plan to store it long-term.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepping the Vegetables

1. Wash all the vegetables thoroughly.
2. Shred the cabbage finely using a sharp knife or a food processor.
3. Dice the onions, bell peppers, and green tomatoes into small, uniform pieces.
4. Grate the carrots for added texture and color.
5. Place all the chopped vegetables into a large bowl and sprinkle with pickling salt.
6. Let the vegetables sit for at least 2 hours to draw out excess moisture.

Step 2: Creating the Pickling Brine

1. In a large pot, combine vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves.

Step 3: Mixing Everything Together

1. Drain the excess liquid from the salted vegetables.
2. Add the vegetables to the pot with the pickling brine.
3. Stir well to coat all the vegetables evenly.

Step 4: Cooking the Chow Chow

1. Simmer the mixture for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Cook until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crunchy.

Canning and Storing Chow Chow

1. While the mixture is still hot, use a canning funnel to transfer it into sterilized jars.
2. Leave about ½ inch of space at the top of each jar.
3. Seal the jars tightly with lids.
4. If storing long-term, process the jars in a water bath canner for 10 minutes.
5. Let the jars cool completely before storing in a cool, dark place.

How to Serve Chow Chow

Chow Chow is incredibly versatile! Here are some popular ways to enjoy it:

• As a topping for hot dogs and burgers
• Mixed into potato salad for extra flavor
• Served alongside barbecue meats
• Spooned over black-eyed peas or pinto beans
• Added to sandwiches and wraps

Variations of Chow Chow

• Southern Chow Chow – Uses green tomatoes and cabbage.
• Northern Chow Chow – Sweeter and often includes cauliflower.
• Spicy Chow Chow – Adds extra chili flakes for heat.

Tips for Making the Best Chow Chow

• Use fresh, high-quality vegetables for the best texture.
• Let the flavors mature for at least a week before eating.
• Adjust sugar and vinegar to suit your taste.

Health Benefits of Chow Chow

• Rich in fiber from cabbage and peppers.
• Contains probiotics if fermented naturally.
• Packed with vitamins A and C.

FAQs about Chow Chow Recipe

What is a Chow Chow?

Chow Chow is a traditional Southern relish made with a mix of vegetables, including green tomatoes, cabbage, onions, and bell peppers. It’s pickled in a sweet and tangy vinegar-based brine, making it an excellent accompaniment to meats, beans, and sandwiches.

How do you make Chow Chow?

To make Chow Chow, chop the vegetables and mix them with salt to draw out moisture. Rinse and drain well. Combine vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, celery seeds, and spices in a pot and bring to a boil. Add the vegetables and simmer until they are tender but still crisp. Cool and store in sterile jars.

Can I use different vegetables in Chow Chow?

Yes, Chow Chow is versatile, and you can use various vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, or even zucchini. The key is to maintain a balance of textures and flavors that pickle well together.

How long does Chow Chow last?

Properly canned and sealed, Chow Chow can last for up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and use within a month for the best flavor and texture.

Is Chow Chow healthy?

Chow Chow is relatively healthy as it is primarily made of vegetables. However, it can be high in sodium and sugar due to the brining process, so it’s best consumed in moderation within a balanced diet.

Conclusion

Making Chow Chow at home is easy and rewarding. This tangy, crunchy relish enhances countless dishes and is a great way to preserve seasonal vegetables. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of Southern tradition in your kitchen!